Chancay Textile Fragments

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

A superb small collection of four Chancay textile fragments, likely originating from the wrappings of a mummy bundle or headdress. These finely woven bands and braided strips display still-vivid hues of burgundy, yellow, green, and brown—colors emblematic of Chancay textile artistry.

Renowned for their mastery of textile production, the Chancay civilization considered textiles a profound medium of cultural expression. These works conveyed messages about status, gender, wealth, and spirituality. Chancay weavers were particularly skilled in producing delicate gauzes, often using materials like llama wool, cotton, chiffon, and even feathers.

Their textiles featured a wide color palette, including scarlet, white, blue, and various earth tones. Motifs ranged from abstract geometric patterns to stylized depictions of animals such as fish, cats, birds, monkeys, and dogs, along with human figures and plant forms. Many of these weavings had ritual purposes—especially gauzes, which were used to cover the heads of the deceased in the form of magical or spiritual headdresses.

In line with Chancay funerary customs, bodies were wrapped in layers of cloth and interred with grave goods. These textile fragments are enduring relics of that sacred tradition, offering insight into both the spiritual beliefs and the remarkable craftsmanship of the Chancay people.

Moderate condition. Age-related heavy wear. Loose threads, tears and holes. Stains, soil and dust. Sizes approx. 4,3cm to 10,0cm.

Provenance: Swedish private collection