Woman's ceremonial overskirt c. 20th century

This ceremonial overskirt was woven by the Quechua people. Notice the vibrant red hues and the structured design, a stark contrast to the earth tones at the top and bottom. The central panel is adorned with rows of figures, perhaps stylized representations of animals vital to the Quechua way of life. Consider how animal symbols have permeated cultures across millennia. From the bull in ancient Minoan culture, embodying power and fertility, to the eagle in Roman iconography, symbolizing imperial strength. The animals’ repeated forms evoke a ritualistic dance or procession, deeply connected to the collective unconscious of the Quechua community. The rhythmic repetition is not merely decorative; it functions as a visual incantation, meant to resonate with ancestral spirits. This echoes in countless cultures, where rhythmic patterns in art are linked to spiritual practices. This textile transcends mere functionality; it encapsulates the cultural memory and the cyclical nature of existence.