Poncho Item Number: 3486/156 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Man’s poncho that is almost entirely covered with figures (diamonds, zigzags, hexagons, flower and leaf patterns) in red or maroon on white. The figures are organized in 4 wide bands and 1 narrower band near the centre seam. Plain weave stripes separate the figured bands; a series of narrow stripes is placed on the outer edge of the poncho.
The neck slit of the poncho is currently sewn closed, a feature of ponchos that are being used as carrying cloths rather than worn as garments.
Poncho is constructed of two 4-selvedge panels woven on an indigenous loom, and sewn together on a long edge with figure-8 stitching, generally leaving a gap for the head to pass through. Figures are woven in a supplementary warp weave that is called “ley” by the weavers in the Cuzco area.
Purchased by the donor in the Pisac market in 1984 from a local vendor.