Tunic

The Wari Empire dominated the central and southern Andean regions from about 600 to 1000 and produced some of the finest tapestry-woven garments of the ancient Americas. In tapestry weaving, the weft threads—the horizontal, multicolored yarns that cover the vertical warp threads—change the color and are packed down to create intricate, mosaic-like patterns. This technique is both material- and labor-intensive, and was used primarily for sumptuous garments. Full-size sleeved tunics are rare and were likely reserved for only the most important individuals.

A frequent image is that of the profile staff-bearing deity, the most important supernatural being depicted during this era (also see the miniature tunic nearby). The running or kneeling figure repeats in opposite directions on the patterned bands and wears a headdress with two bird heads and a winged form on his back. He holds a staff that terminates in a fanged feline head.