NOTES
Peruvian textiles frequently contain repeated imagery with alternating colors and inversions. These carefully devised patterns were highly symbolic, representing the organization of varied designs into a harmonious whole. The imagery on this textile could also evoke relationships between forms, particularly those in the natural world. On the Paracas fragment, composite beings celebrate the importance of the agricultural cycle. Both figures carry strings of lima beans in one hand while chili peppers emanate from a staff in the other and tubers float above their heads. These fancifully dressed beings oversaw the crops of carefully tended Paracas farms.
