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

This watercolor drawing was made by Francisco Fierro in 19th-century Peru. He rendered this woman in profile on paper with delicate strokes of pigment. Note how the artist used the materiality of watercolor to capture a portrait of Peruvian society. The pigments define the figure's garments; her dark saya, a skirt-like garment, contrasts with the shawl's intricate patterns. Fierro's technique reflects a blend of observation and skill. The precision in rendering the textile patterns shows careful attention to detail, probably influenced by the rise of the textile industry in Peru, along with the dress traditions. The colors might come from natural dyes, extracted from plants in the region. The quality of the paper also tells us about global trade. Through the artistry, Fierro's watercolor portrays not just a woman but a society undergoing change, blurring the boundaries between fine art and social commentary.