Border Fragment
Unknown Artist
1st century BCE–2nd century CE
Medium
Camelid hair, cotton
Dimensions
Overall: 6 3/4 x 43 1/2 in. (17.15 x 110.49 cm) Other: 6 3/4 in. (17.15 cm)
Classification
Textiles-Trimmings
Culture
Paracas
Department
Arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of George D. Pratt, 1933
Accession Number
33.149.87
Art Historical Context
This exquisite *Border Fragment* from theacas culture of ancient Peru dates to the 1st BCE–2nd century, a time when this pre-Inca society thrived along the arid southern coast. Paracas textiles are among the finest surviving examples of early Andean artistry, often discovered in mummy bundles preserved by the desert climate. Measuring about 6¾ x 43½ inches, this narrow strip likely edged a larger mantle or garment, showcasing the elite status of its owner through intricate designs. Crafted from camelid hair (such as alpaca or vicuña wool) and cotton, the fragment highlights advanced weaving a...