Serape c. 1900

This is a Serape, woven in Saltillo, Mexico. These Saltillo serapes are more than just textiles; they are cultural emblems, embodying the fusion of indigenous weaving traditions with Spanish colonial influences. As you look at this piece, consider the identities and histories interwoven into its threads. The diamond motif, bold colors, and intricate designs speak of a vibrant cultural exchange, but they also hint at the social stratification of the time. The demand for these serapes among the elite fueled local economies, yet the stories of the indigenous artisans who created them are often untold. This serape invites us to reflect on the complexities of cultural exchange, labor, and identity formation in colonial Mexico. It invites us to consider the human hands that poured their skill and experience into its creation.