1982.215 Ceremonial Huipil

The Maya populations of Guatemala are distinguished through the richness of their textile arts. One of the most distinctive and recognizable garments is the huipil, a tunic-like blouse worn by Maya women. Woven on a backstrap loom, the huipil is often composed of three panels sewn together. The brocaded designs that decorate the surface consist of specific colors, patterns, and figures that signify the community identity of the weaver. 

This huipil pertains to the municipality of Sacapulas in the modern-day department of Quiche in Guatemala. The textile is nearly identical to another example from Sacapulas in the Museum's collection [1983.365], with subtle contrasts of pink and red throughout a rhythmic pattern of diamonds and chevrons. The four-scalloped appliqué designs around the neck add visual weight to the otherwise supple fabric of these ornate historical huipiles from the Maya community of Sacapulas. 

Maya: AAT: 300017826

Guatemala (nation): TGN: 7005493

Quiche (department): TGN: 7005490

Sacapulas (municipality/El Quiché/Guatemala): DMA

backstrap looms (textile tools): AAT: 300023507

brocade (weaving technique): AAT: 300053648

weaving: AAT: 300053642

cotton (fiber): AAT: 300183670

silk (textile): AAT: 300243428

twentieth century (dates CE): AAT: 300404514

chevrons (motifs): AAT: 300009766

diamonds (motifs): AAT: 300009791

geometric patterns: AAT: 300165213

huipils (tunics / main garments): AAT: 300410449

red (color): AAT: 300126225

textiles (visual works): AAT: 300014063

weaving: AAT: 300053642

Before 1982: The Carolyn and Dan C. Williams Collection of Guatemalan Textiles 

1982: Dallas Museum of Art, gift of Carolyn and Dan C. Williams

The main source for this provenance is the Deed of Gift, dated December 31, 1982, copy located in TMS.  

Apply to objects where number equals 1982.215