Woman's wedding mantle (lliclla) with interlace and tocapu design

Art Historical Context

This exquisite *Woman's wedding mantle (lliclla)*, in Peru during the late 16 to early 17th century, exemplifies the enduring mastery of Andean textile traditions amid the early colonial era. Worn by women as a ceremonial shawl draped over the shoulders, the lliclla held deep cultural significance, especially for weddings, symbolizing status, identity, and community ties. Its large size—over 50 by 45 inches—allowed it to envelop the wearer dramatically, showcasing intricate patterns like interlace motifs and distinctive tocapu squares, which may incorporate bird imagery, evoking the natural wo...