A woman wearing the saya standing in profile, from a group of drawings depicting Peruvian dress 1843 - 1853

Francisco Fierro created this watercolor drawing of a woman in traditional Peruvian dress in the 19th century. It’s part of a larger series documenting the diverse social types of the time. Here, the image offers us a window into the social norms and cultural practices of 19th-century Peru, particularly regarding women's roles and identities. The saya, a skirt and veil combination, was typically worn by mixed-race women in urban areas, creating a sense of anonymity while navigating the complexities of colonial society. This fashion choice allowed women a degree of social mobility. The visual codes of the saya also reflect the influence of Spanish colonial rule. By studying documents from the period, we can better understand how clothing like the saya both reflected and shaped social identities in colonial Peru. The value of art lies in its power to reflect the dynamics of society.