Fragment Possibly 1000 - 1476

This fragment, crafted by the Ica people, features a striking array of stepped fret patterns. These are not mere decorations but potent symbols, echoing the cyclical nature of life and the cosmos. Consider how similar motifs appear across cultures—from the labyrinths of ancient Crete to the geometric designs of the Navajo. The stepped form, ever-rising, speaks to humanity's perpetual striving and ascent towards enlightenment. This motif is reminiscent of the swastika, an ancient symbol found across continents. Initially carrying meanings of good fortune, its appropriation by darker forces shows how symbols can tragically morph. The emotional power of this textile lies in its evocation of time itself, as the endless repetition of the fret pattern embodies a collective memory. It powerfully engages the viewer on a deep, subconscious level, reminding us of the non-linear, cyclical progression, where symbols are resurfaced, evolved, and take on new meanings.