pre-columbian art

Tunic

Wari tapestry tunics were extremely labor-intensive. The tunics were generally woven with cotton warps and very fine, densely packed alpaca wefts. Alpaca fiber takes dye readily; vibrant reds, pinks, and yellows were especially favored, as seen in the detail photograph. To make a tunic, several weavers worked side by side, probably in a state-sponsored workshop, to produce a wide panel of cloth. Two panels were then stitched together, with slits for the head and arms.

Textile Art