Fragment (Border) Possibly 1000 - 1476

Editor: This textile fragment, referred to as "Fragment (Border)," was created by the Chancay people sometime between 1000 and 1476. It strikes me as a study in geometry, full of repeating shapes, even if time has frayed the edges. What do you notice about it? Curator: My eye is drawn to the composition. The clear horizontal organization creates two distinct registers. Observe how the upper register is dominated by what appear to be saw-tooth semi-circles, which lead downward to a field of repeating triangular shapes in the lower portion. The warp and weft threads work in concert to create rhythm, visual texture, and ultimately, meaning. Editor: Meaning? It's more than just decoration? Curator: Form follows function, wouldn’t you agree? And within form there exists culturally defined symbols that serve utilitarian, as well as higher functions. Think about how textiles are used - what are they made of, who wears them, when are they worn and why? Editor: So, each geometric form may encode information or have some symbolic significance? Are the triangles meant to represent mountains, perhaps? Curator: It is likely these forms hold deeper meanings embedded in the culture from which they originate, meanings we can attempt to interpret through close reading of the artifact, but always from a present-day viewpoint. What do you make of the border with tassels along the lower edge? Editor: The tassels definitely speak to its purpose, even in its fragmented state. It would have bordered something, clothing perhaps, or a larger tapestry. Curator: Indeed. Considering this “fragment” as a piece of something larger and the geometric structure creates both meaning and aesthetic appeal. Editor: Thank you. I am looking at it very differently now.