Tunic

Item number Sf823 a-b from the MOA: University of British Columbia.

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Data
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Description

Two rectangular textile fragments of yellow and white slit tapestry with design bands separated by horizontal stripes (part a and b). The major design band, which appears on both fragments, is a series of chevrons with avian-feline(?) composites, triangles and interlocking spirals in adjacent chevrons. Part a, the larger fragment, also has a band of profile birds and another of interlocking spirals. A separately woven fringe is sewn to the warp selvedge. Fragments of blue sewing thread remain on the single weft selvedge.

History Of Use

A complete tunic of the type these fragments appear to have come from is in fig 100 (Rowe 1977). Such tunics are very large in size and were probably used as shirts for mummy bundles. The technical features of these fragments are consistent with central coast tapestry practices (Rowe 1980).

Narrative

Chancay style, Late Intermediate Period; 900-1476 C.E.

Iconographic Meaning

The major motif appears to combine feline, avian, and human characteristics. This motif is common in Chancay and appears on another piece in this collection (Sf863).