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Loincloth
✓ Authenticity guarantee · ✓ Specialist condition report · ✓ Insured worldwide shipping · ✓ Private-room viewing
Loincloths were basic men’s wear in ancient Peru. But the extraordinary size of some examples—this one is about eight feet long, unfolded—makes it difficult to know how they were worn, except that they were tied around the waist with the decorated panels hanging at the front and back of the body. The appearance may have been that of a billowing skirt.
| Artist / Maker | Anonymous, 1200–1460s |
|---|---|
| Date | 1425–1500 (radiocarbon date, 92.3% probability) |
| Culture / Origin | Peru, North Coast, Chimú style, 1200–1460s |
| Medium | cotton; plain weave, brocaded and complex alternating gauze with 5 shots of plain weave between gauze shots |
| Dimensions | Overall: 151.1 x 57.2 cm (59 1/2 x 22 1/2 in.); Mounted: 167.6 x 71.1 cm (66 x 28 in.) |
| Department | Textiles |
| Type | Garment |
About the Artist
Provenance & Source
Image & data: Cleveland Museum of Art, CC0 / Public Domain.
Condition
A detailed condition report and high-resolution photography are available from our specialists in advance of the sale.
Shipping & Collection
Fine-art shipping with climate control and full insurance to over 120 countries; collection by appointment.
Buying at Matchless Pieces
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