Woman's ceremonial blouse (Huipil), c. 1950s
Kaqchikel Mayaexpand_more
Cotton, silk; embroidery, appliquéexpand_more
Gift of Dr. Richard L. Simmons and Dr. Rosa Lynn Pinkusexpand_more 2006.100.100
Not on Viewexpand_more
Many ancient cultures of the Americas used feathers to embellish clothing, headdresses and ritual objects, and the Maya were no exception. Images on Classic Maya pottery and murals clearly show feathers adorning deities, warriors and nobility. The women of Patzún embroider stylized feather shapes on their ceremonial huipiles, referencing the myths and customs of the ancestors. These feathers encircle the head opening of the huipil and their arrangement suggests the rays of the sun, while the central rosette symbolizes the moon.
Huipiles with feather motif embroidery are only used as wedding huipiles or for Cofradía (religious or civic brotherhood) rituals. Unlike many other communities where commercial cotton fabric forms the ground for embroidery, the women of Patzún use backstrap woven fabric.
Details
- Title
- Woman's ceremonial blouse (Huipil)
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 2006.100.100
- Curator Approved
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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