Larrainzar Napkin (Set of 2)

Set of two

This piece comes from the village of San Andres Larrainzar, Chiapas. It is made out of cotton and wool using a backstrap loom and it is hand embroidered.

Measurements:

65 cm x 39 cm




Weaving, women and the loom

There are many magical beliefs and superstitions concerning the loom. The loom, the spindle, the weaving comb are all connected symbolically with hair, which in turn is connected with rain and serpents, and thus with fertility.

In Chiapas, many women believe that it is disastrous to weave when pregnant, as it brings bad luck to the child if it is a boy. This is because weaving is a woman’s occupation. For the Maya, weapons are as closely associated with men as looms are to women.