Dig It - 1/15/24
Well Hello Fellow Seekers. Now Dig This! In 1977, myself and a friend, Baker spent some time traveling throughout the Highlands of Guatemala collecting textiles and masks and having a Great time.
This is a Tzute, or a man’s head scarf. It could also be used for pockets/bags. It is from the Village of Nahuala, Department of Solala, in the Midwestern Highlands of Guatemala. This was made by and for the Quiche Mayans. At the time I was there, indigenous men and women still wore their native costumes which was very cool to witness. It was a land where the people were dressed up in the colors of butterflies and birds. Wonderful, wonderful!
This Tzute is made of indigo, and possibly, cochineal dyed, Native-spun cotton thread and woven on a backstop loom. It is 42” long by 32” wide, (rather wide for a back strap loom). It is large for a Tzute, so it was probably made for special occasions, having to do with the Cofradia system for celebrating religious holidays. The surface of the cloth is covered with wonderful mythological creatures embroidered in cotton floss.
My interpretation of these creatures is as follows; top row are monkeys because of their curled tail. Next row down are birds, especially ducks. Below the ducks are winged quadrupeds like Gryphons, then more birds, vines and floral arrangements. Next is a row of rampant Spanish Lions. Then probably stars, a row of springing deer, and lastly a row of crested birds, perhaps Harpy Eagles. I am offering this piece for sale as well as others. I love them but I think it is time for someone else to enjoy them. Lonesome.