Wayaka (bag) 1960 - 1970

This is a "Wayaka," or bag, of unknown date, made with fiber by an anonymous artist. The piece features a series of horizontal bands that create a rhythmic pattern. The bands alternate between solid colors and figurative motifs, creating visual interest. Each motif is contained within its own horizontal register, which encourages us to focus on its internal elements. The figures, which might represent animals or mythical beings, are highly stylized. Their forms are simplified and abstracted, reducing them to their most essential components. The work is grounded in a structural arrangement that directs how the composition is constructed. The colors, though muted by age, still display a range of earth tones and faded reds that convey a sense of antiquity. These hues contribute to a general feeling of mystery and timelessness. While the bag’s original use may be lost, it evokes the spirit of a cultural system embedded in symbols.