Tunic fragment with raptor birds

600-900

Peru has the longest textile-making tradition in the world and skilled weavers used a myriad of techniques. An interlock tapestry weave is employed here using finely spun fibers. The Wari were superb weavers of complex abstract designs; the schematized birds arranged in a sequence, seen here, are a striking example.

Alpaca wool, cotton fiber

9 1/4 x 34 in. (23.5 x 86.36 cm)

Overall h.: 17 5/8 in.

Overall w.: 41 5/8 in.

Eugene Fuller Memorial Collection

46.114

Not currently on view

Resources

Exhibition HistorySeattle, Washington, Seattle Art Museum, Patterns of Fiber, December 19, 1980 - March 8, 1981

Seattle Art Museum respectfully acknowledges that we are on Indigenous land, the traditional territories of the Coast Salish people. We honor our ongoing connection to these communities past, present, and future.

Learn more about Equity at SAM