Chancay Textile Fragment

Pre-Columbian era, Chancay culture, 1000–1470AD, Peru

This exquisite Chancay textile fragment, once part of a mummy bundle or tunic, showcases the extraordinary weaving traditions of the Chancay civilization. Finely woven with stylized stripes, the textile retains its vivid hues of golden brown, burgundy, dark moss green, and light emerald green, a testament to the enduring craftsmanship of its makers.

The Chancay people were renowned for their mastery of textiles, which served as vital symbols of status, wealth, gender, and spirituality. Specializing in delicate gauze work, their weavings incorporated a diverse palette, including yellows, browns, scarlet, white, blues, and greens. The materials used ranged from llama wool and cotton to chiffon and even feathers. Typical designs featured geometric patterns as well as depictions of plants, animals—such as fish, cats, birds, monkeys, and dogs—and human figures.

Gauze textiles like this one held deep religious and magical significance, often serving as headdresses for the deceased. As part of their burial customs, the Chancay people wrapped their dead in multiple layers of cloth and interred them alongside various grave goods. This remarkable fragment offers a glimpse into the artistic sophistication and spiritual beliefs of this ancient Andean civilization.

Moderate condition. Age-related wear. Loose threads, tears and holes. Stains, soil, dirt and dust. Sizes approx. 23,0cm x 10,0cm.

Provenance: Swedish private collection