Fair Trade Bolivian Aguayo Blanket / Throw 1.3m x 1.3m (51”)

Aguayo Blanket

The indigenous communities of the Andes still work textiles and leather, and these blankets are a traditional item for sale at mountain markets in small quantities and original, unique designs.

The fabric is a traditional one called Aguayo. 100% Cotton and natural dyes are used. Dimensions approx. 1.3m x 1.3m / 51″ x 51″.

As each is different we show pictures of the variety. A random blanket will be sent out so it could be grey, black or white or another muted colour.

We also sell more muted coloured ones in out other listings.

This stunning native blanket has been made by indigenous women in the Bolivian mountain villages of Antacucho and Cuchuri where they have used textile arts to create this blanket, each one with a unique aguayo pattern.

The indigenous Indian craftsmen and women still maintain their traditional techniques and maintain durable design features and original artwork.

These blankets are traditionally used in the Andes by indigenous people for carrying produce on their backs, they also have multiple uses as a baby carrier or as a warm blanket, wall hanging or thick tablecloth.

Background

Aguayo fabrics are originally used in South America in the Andean culture, in countries such as Bolivia, Peru, Chile and Argentina for women to carry children and take products to the market. The fabrics are a hand made weave, often made from wool, and dyed with natural vibrant colours. If you look at the design of aguayo, you can see that most of them have 3 defined blocks that are the edge or “t’irja” from where the blanket is tied. Then there is “pampa” or the flat part, which is a specific solid colour. And finally, “salta” or the part with patterns or figures. The colours used often indicate the region in which the fabric was made, or the purpose for which it is to be used, such as for specific festivals etc. The process of weaving traditional aguayo is complex and time consuming.

More information on aguayo here.

We sell blankets and throws from all over the work in our blanket section