South America, Peru / Bolivia, Quechua or Aymara culture, ca. early to mid-20th century CE. Two handwoven ponchos, likely made from a blend of synthetic and wool from sheep and possibly alpaca. The ponchos are made of two separate panels, each sewn together at the midpoint, with a slit in the center through which one's head would fit. In the late 19th and throughout the 20th century, Andean weavers developed a strong preference for newly introduced chemical dyes and pre-spun synthetic fibers, associating their usage with wealth. Factory-produced yarn was much more costly than homespun wool, but the irresistible array of vibrant colors, unattainable with natural dyes, fueled a significant demand. Size: 66" L x 63" W (167.6 cm x 160 cm)

Provenance: private Ferndale, Michigan, USA collection; ex-private Detroit, Michigan, USA collection, acquired prior to 2004

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#183404

Wear from age and use. Small tears and perforations to both. Fraying and unraveling to fibers, especially along the panel seams. Some areas of staining and discoloration.