Archival Textile No. 108 | A Study in Chromatic Contrast
Vintage Frazada
Frazada Rug
Archival Textile No. 108 is a vibrant specimen of traditional Andean backstrap-loom weaving. Measuring 65" x 61", this piece is defined by its high-contrast "maximalist" palette—a rhythmic arrangement of saturated fuchsia, bright turquoise, and deep indigo stripes. It represents a bold example of mid-century Andean color theory, designed for impact and spatial definition.
Archive Acquisition Rationale: No. 108 was admitted into the archive for the exceptional preservation of its high-intensity pigments. The turquoise register, in particular, remains remarkably vivid—a characteristic often lost in surviving vintage Peruvian rugs due to light exposure. Its nearly square proportions offer unique versatility for architectural placement.
The Archive Note: Originally engineered as a heavy-duty thermal barrier for Andean winters, this one-of-a-kind area rug has transitioned from a rugged utility object to a refined interior specimen. Its status is marked by an heirloom patina—a softening of the hand-spun sheep wool achieved through decades of authentic use. The central union seam serves as a physical record of the weaver’s body, marking the human-scale limits of the traditional backstrap loom.
Condition Assessment: Archive-preserved vintage condition. Structural integrity is exceptionally intact, with a dense weave and secure hand-joined central union. Minor tonal variations are consistent with authentic mid-century provenance and natural fiber aging.
Curator’s Notes:
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Pigment Saturation: Selected for the rare longevity of its fuchsia and turquoise dyes, which retain a high degree of "electric" vibrancy.
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Proportional Versatility: The nearly square dimensions make it an ideal candidate for architectural wall mounting or as a focal point under contemporary furniture.
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Textural Integrity: Features the characteristic weight and "hand" of high-altitude hand-spun wool, providing significant textural presence.
Technical Specifications:
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Classification: Vintage Andean Textile / Fuchsia & Turquoise Accent Rug
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Dimensions: 65" x 61" (165 cm x 155 cm)
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Material: 100% High-Altitude Hand-Spun Peruvian Sheep Wool
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Construction: Double-Panel Backstrap Loom
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Origin: Cusco Highlands, Peru | Mid–Late 20th Century
Care & Conservation: As a high-integrity, hand-spun wool object, No. 108 is naturally soil-resistant. For archival maintenance, we recommend periodic airing in indirect sunlight and professional dry cleaning only if necessary. Avoid high-suction vacuuming to preserve the heritage hand-spun fibers.
Recommended Companion Objects: To balance the high-intensity register of No. 108, we recommend pairing with matte black steel, light white oak, or smooth concrete textures. The turquoise accents perform exceptionally well against neutral, architectural backdrops.
Provenance & Stewardship: Sourced through long-standing relationships with indigenous weaving families across the Peruvian highlands. These acquisitions contribute to the continued preservation of regional weaving traditions.
Due to the nature of these one of a kind vintage textile they are sold as it is, no refunds on any vintage product.
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INSPIRED PERU
Inspired Peru is an artisan cooperative consisting of 35 artisans; the majority are widows and heads of household from indigenous communities in the Peruvian highlands. Ethically sourced, local alpaca wool is used to craft products, such as stuffed animals and accessories, that celebrate the artisans’ ancestral and cultural heritage. The artisans generally work from the comfort of their home; however, they have access to a communal workshop in the city of Lima. At Inspired Peru, artisans are empowered to transmit their traditional skills to future generations while expanding their business and leadership skills. Artisans have access to skill development programs through Inspired Peru. We are proud to partner with artisans at Inspired Peru.
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THE TECHNIQUE
On average, six to eight artisans collaborate on the production of these stuffed animals. It takes about five days to craft each of these adorable, hypoallergenic stuffed animals. The process begins with artisans shaping molds and carefully sewing the body. Each animal’s face is separately constructed, giving each piece a very realistic flair. After carefully shaving the alpaca, the hair is washed and sun-dried for one to two days. Depending on the item, the artisans may dye the alpaca hair using vibrant colors. Dying involves additional hand-wash cycles to reach the desired color. Molds are separately made using flexible cardboard. Artisans carefully hand-glue the washed alpaca hair to the mold. Once dried, the hair is thoroughly hand-combed to reach its staple softness. No animal cruelty is involved in the sourcing of the alpaca hair.