The Andean Science Of Weaving: Structures And Techniques Of Warp-Faced Weaves Hardcover

Denise Y. Arnold

The warp-faced weaves of the Andes are the most complex in the world, with up to eight warp levels. Existing studies of Andean textiles use a technical language derived from other textile traditions (mainly tapestry from Europe and the Near East), but this book takes as its starting-point the technical terms in the Aymara and Quechua languages used by Andean weavers themselves. The result is a completely new way of understanding one of the great craft traditions of the world. Within its field, the authors' work is truly groundbreaking. This is a highly technical book that sets out the authors' alternative classification system via tables, photographs and diagrams. It is also a celebration of one of the most gorgeous and sophisticated weaving traditions in the world.

English

Thames & Hudson Ltd

14 July 2015

352

Denise Y. Arnold is an international expert in Andean anthropology and has published widely on the culture, politics and traditions of the Andes. Elvira Espejo is Director of the Museum of Ethnography and Folklore in La Paz, Bolivia. She is a weaver, storyteller, poet and artist, and speaks Aymara and Quechua.

Elvira Espejo

Will inspire weavers. . . . The intricacy and artistry of the items, most of which are woven on simple equipment, is astonishing. The vocabulary of weaving is illustrated in the weavers' native languages (Aymara and Quechua) as well as English and Spanish, and photographs of contemporary weavers illuminate the methods in action. The result is a volume that helps keep a vibrant and ancient culture alive.