Ayacucho Wool Tapestry with Andean Chola Women Motif, "Andean Cholas"

Chola is a term referring to indigenous and mestizo women from the Andes that now applies to all who wear the traditional costumes established during the initial process of mestizaje (mixing of cultures) in the current Andean region. Peru's Gerardo Fernandez creates a breathtaking Ayacucho tapestry expertly handwoven from wool depicting three cholas in abstract style. "The women are wearing typical hats and colorful skirts. Each figure is carefully detailed, capturing the richness of the textiles and the bright hues that characterize their attire," says Fernandez. The eco-friendly tapestry is colored with natural dyes obtained from organic sources like cochineal and tree leaves, bark, roots and fruits.