Bolivian Aymara People Belt: "Huaka"

Bolivian Aymara People Belt: "Huaka"

Collection: Everyday Connections

Object Type: Belts

Country: Bolivia
Continent: South America
Geographic Region: Southern America
Materials: Wool (Alpaca)
width: 5 in; height: 68 in; depth: .25 in

The belt , "huaka" in the Aymara language, was possibly woven in the Lake Titicaca region of Peru or Bolivia. It features geometric designs that are typical of Aymara People's textiles. Sometimes figures of men, women and llamas are woven into the design.

Ancient native peoples wove similar belts on back strap looms. Few people weave on such looms today.

Such belts were also used for ceremonial purposes.
Source:
http://www.artic.edu/aic/collections/artwork/85073?search_no=1&index=1
https://www.worthpoint.com/worthopedia/chumpi-quechua-sash-belt-peru-bolivia-textile
http://threads-of-time.carlos.emory.edu/items/show/116