Exploration des Couleurs Andines : L'Art Textile Péruvien et ses Racines Ancestrales dans les Andes Mystiques

Textiles in the Colonial Andes: A Rich Tapestry of Culture and History

The Cultural Significance of Textiles in Inka Society

In the Inka culture, textiles were considered more precious than gold, serving as a vital expression of social identity and cultural boundaries. Spanish historian Gonzalo Fernández de Oviedo documented their use in Inka ceremonies, underscoring their importance. These textiles were not merely decorative but were imbued with deep cultural significance, often used to denote status and affiliation within the society.

Adaptation and Continuity in the Viceroyalty of Peru

Following the Spanish conquest, indigenous weavers in the Viceroyalty of Peru adapted pre-Columbian traditions to create garments like the uncu, a ceremonial tunic. These tunics featured tocapu designs, symbolizing ethnic or geographical affiliations, and incorporated European elements such as rampant lions, reflecting the colonial influences that permeated Andean society.

The Artistic Cross-Fertilization in Tapestries

Tapestries were a significant form of textile art in the colonial Andes, enjoyed by the wealthy. The “Tapestry with Pelican” is a prime example of artistic cross-fertilization, blending Chinese silk embroidery motifs with Christian iconography. This tapestry illustrates the vibrant trans-Pacific trade and the integration of diverse cultural elements, showcasing the adaptability and creativity of Andean artisans.

Textile Influence on Mural Paintings

Textile designs also influenced other art forms, such as mural paintings in rural churches. The Chapel of Canincunca features “textile murals” that mimic luxurious fabrics using trompe l’oeil techniques. These murals, while situated in religious settings, contain abstract designs without explicit Christian references, reflecting a blend of religious and secular art.

The Symbolism of Textiles in Andean Beliefs

The depiction of textiles in murals may symbolize the personification of the church as a living entity, resonating with Andean beliefs in the animated quality of the natural world. This reflects the enduring legacy and adaptability of Andean textile traditions, showcasing their role in cultural expression and identity within the colonial context.

The Enduring Legacy of Andean Textiles

Overall, the article by Dr. Ananda Cohen-Aponte highlights the enduring legacy and adaptability of Andean textile traditions. These textiles were not only a means of cultural expression but also a testament to the resilience and creativity of the Andean people, who skillfully navigated the complexities of colonial influences while preserving their rich heritage.

Sources utilisées :
Exploration des Couleurs Andines: L’Art Textile Péruvien et ses …,
Exploration des Couleurs Andines : L’Art Textile Péruvien et ses …,
[PDF] Textile-Colors-and-Colorants-in-the-Andes.pdf – ResearchGate,
Un Univers des formes: l’art précolombien du Pérou,
Artifact: Ancient Andean Textiles — monah,
Les plus anciens tissus des Andes – Archéologie des Amériques,
Les Textiles Andins – Le textile comme le symbole d’une identité …,
Textiles in the Colonial Andes – Smarthistory,
Le Pérou préhispanique un grand producteur de textiles