Product Description
This vintage manta (aguayo) from Cochabamba, Bolivia is a beautifully preserved example of handwoven Andean textile art. In fine condition, it features its original cinta (decorative woven border), a detail highly valued by collectors of Bolivian textiles.
Traditionally, mantas like this were used by Bolivian women as shawls, blankets, or carrying cloths—often to wrap babies or transport goods on their backs. Today, they are cherished worldwide as collectible folk textiles and admired as boho home décor, wall hangings, or decorative throws.
Details:
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Origin: Cochabamba, Bolivia (Andean region)
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Type: Vintage manta / aguayo
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Material: Handwoven wool 39" x 47"
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Features: Fine condition with intact cinta, geometric Andean patterns
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Traditional Use: Shawl, blanket, carrying cloth
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Modern Use: Decorative throw, wall hanging, boho accent
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Condition: Vintage – excellent craftsmanship, collectible
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Rare piece from Cochabamba, the cultural center of Bolivia
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Original cinta intact — prized by collectors
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Versatile textile: wearable, functional, or decorative
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A work of Andean heritage, handwoven by indigenous artisans
This Cochabamba manta is more than a textile — it is a living piece of Bolivian history, reflecting centuries of weaving tradition and artistry.
The creation of this manta begins with the shearing of sheep’s wool, followed by the phar stage, where the wool is first spun. This initial spinning is crucial, laying the groundwork for what will become a remarkable piece of art.
The dyeing process is a labor of love and precision. Master weavers carefully select and measure natural dyes sourced from the region’s abundant flora and fauna—leaves, tree bark, flowers, fruits, and even minerals. Each hue is achieved through a meticulous balance, as even the slightest miscalculation can jeopardize days of hard work. The result is a vibrant palette that reflects the beauty of the Andes.
Following dyeing, the manta undergoes the "k’anti" process, where fine spinning techniques are employed to prepare for the intricate designs. The complex k’uychi stage, or “rainbow,” involves the careful combination of colors on the loom, requiring the weaver to count and memorize the necessary threads for each unique design. This stage is where the manta truly comes to life, as the weaver’s creativity and skill manifest in beautiful patterns.
The final step, "awakipa", involves the delicate embroidery along the edges of the manta. This technique adds a layer of sophistication and showcases the weaver's artistry, making each piece not just a textile, but a work of art.
