Lliclla, Ceremonial Mantle, Charazani Region, Dept. of La Paz, Late 19th - Early 20th C. Alpaca warp and weft. Weft. There are two signs that indicate that this textile was owned by the family of a Callahualla shaman. First, while most Charazani pieces feature animals and other symbols, this piece features only the scroll motif, which is associated with the magic of the Callahualla shamans. Secondly, the weft is composed of hidden bichrome yarns, which is a shamanistic structure. Additionally, the yarns are very finely spun from alpaca and precisely woven. They were favored by the Inca royalty, who brought them to Cuzco to be their court physicians. Some 19th and 20th century travelers reported seeing them as far away as southern Argentina and northern Columbia, collecting herbs, trading and healing. Size: 3'2'' x 3'8'' (97 x 112 cm).

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