Band Possibly 1000 - 1476

This band was made by the Chancay people of Peru, using cotton and feathers. It represents a sophisticated textile tradition, where the act of weaving is far more than just a practical craft. The tight, consistent weave shows careful work and considerable time investment. The cotton threads are dyed in contrasting tones to create geometric patterns, which are then embellished with applied feathers. These wouldn't have been easy materials to come by. Cotton production required cultivation and processing, and the feathers likely came from birds with symbolic value. The weaver has imbued the band with significance. This kind of weaving was not merely decorative. It was a labor-intensive process embedded in a specific cultural context. Textiles like this one played a vital role in Chancay society, signifying status, religious beliefs, and social identity. Understanding the making of this band allows us to appreciate the considerable skill, cultural meaning, and historical context woven into its very threads.