Tunic

Wari artist

600–1200

Cotton, camelid fiber

Minneapolis Institute of Art

This is a woven textile with a repeating geometric pattern in brown, tan, pink, and black. It is divided into vertical panels with a central slit at the top. In ancient Andean cultures including the Wari empire, clothing communicated much more than style; a ceremonial tunic like this was an object of great prestige. Its production required the cooperation of a large community of skilled individuals. Because it took so long to create, multiple weavers would often collaborate on a single piece. On close inspection, variations in weavers’ individual styles can be seen in the weave structure as well as the interpretation of the repeating pattern. Before the weavers could begin their work, several other professionals were required. Agricultural specialists bred the animals and cultivated the