Fragment Possibly 1000 - 1476

This woven fragment, made by an artist from the Chancay culture, invites us to consider the rich artistic traditions of pre-Columbian Peru. Emerging around 1000 AD, the Chancay people were known for their distinctive ceramics and textiles, often found in funerary contexts, suggesting a deep connection to beliefs about the afterlife. The stylized birds, rendered in brown and black, might carry symbolic meanings related to nature or spiritual beliefs. As you look, consider the hands that created this piece – most likely women. The act of weaving was not merely a craft but a significant cultural practice through which women could express their identities and social roles. This fragment offers a glimpse into the intricate worldview of a society that thrived long before European contact. It reminds us of the emotional and intellectual depth embedded in everyday objects, and the power of art to connect us to histories often overlooked.