Comparative Weaving of South America

 The Temple University Anthropology Laboratory houses two important examples of indigenous South American weaving: The Cashinahua of Amazonian Peru and the Toba of Chaco Province, Argentina. Both groups’ weaving traditions are female-driven, with women responsible for everything from gathering and processing raw materials to the multi-step weaving process (Tanner, 1975)(Iñíguez, 2005).  Various baskets and textiles shown in this exhibit serve as examples of the differing materials and methods used by these two cultural groups. These practical yet artistic items showcase the weavers’ skill while also providing insight to the changing dynamics in both cultures as increased economic and urban pressures have shifted the nature of production.