Pre-Columbian, Central Coast Peru, Chancay culture, ca. 12th to 14th century CE. A wonderful textile panel of woven camelid wool presenting a pair of standing, anthropomorphic figures surrounded by a design of zigzagging serpents. Displaying hues of caramel, chocolate brown, cream, and white, the mesmerizing panel presents elaborate decoration of dozens of geometric and zoomorphic motifs, as well as an abstract border at the bottom periphery. Serpents - like those in this example - were regarded to be a beneficial source of nourishment and at the same time quite deadly with their poisonous venom. Also important to the indigenous was the fact that snakes shed their skin annually thus rejuvenating themselves and serving as symbols of renewal and good health! Size of panel: 18.6" W x 22.4" H (47.2 cm x 56.9 cm); of frame: 23.4" W x 27.4" H (59.4 cm x 69.6 cm)

Provenance: ex-private Bishop Family Trust collection, the Trust of the late Bill Bishop, a noted antiquarian with shops in Scottsdale, Arizona and Allenspark, Colorado, USA, acquired before 2010

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#174438

Fragment of a larger piece. Some loosening, staining, and fraying to peripheries and interior, as well as a few small tears with minor loss as shown. Mounted to modern fabric and fit with modern wood and glass frame.