Pre-Columbian Andean Textile Fragment in Sterling Silver & Hardwood Presentation

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Pre-Columbian Andean Textile Fragment in Sterling Silver & Hardwood Presentation Box
Textile: Wari or Inca Culture, Andes, Circa 600–1400 CE … Read more Pre-Columbian Andean Textile Fragment in Sterling Silver & Hardwood Presentation Box
Textile: Wari or Inca Culture, Andes, Circa 600–1400 CE Box: Mid-20th Century

A refined and historically rich presentation box housing an authentic Pre-Columbian Andean textile fragment, mounted beneath glass within a hand-hammered sterling silver bezel. The box itself is crafted from dense tropical hardwood—possibly rosewood or mahogany—with a smooth, removable lift-top lid and inset interior, forming a vessel both decorative and functional.

The textile, dating between 600 and 1400 CE, is likely of Wari or Inca origin, originating from the central Andes of present-day Peru. Woven on a backstrap loom using alpaca or llama wool, the fragment features interlocking geometric and diamond motifs in vivid red, yellow, and olive tones—dyed with natural pigments. These motifs were deeply symbolic within Andean cosmology, potentially representing lineage, agricultural fertility, and sacred dualities.

Portions of the fragment are intentionally left voided, reflecting archaeological conservation practices and emphasizing the authenticity of the ancient material. The juxtaposition of ancient fiber art with modern silver and wood craftsmanship bridges past and present, making this box ideal for collectors of ethnographic material, Pre-Columbian artifacts, or textile studies. See less