This natural and grey table runner with an embroidered strip is handwoven on a backstrap loom by Tzozil women from Chiapas in Southwestern Mexico. Traditional garments such as huilipes and capes are adorned through brocading - a traditional practice which contributes to the renowned richness and complexity of the indigenous dress of Chiapas. In the Chiapatecan highlands, brocade is seen not only as an art form but as a sacrosanct ritual, passed down by gods and perfected by ancestors. These pieces exemplify the blending of a rich and ancient traditional craft with contemporary aesthetics and designs, with the result being truly Mexican products.
The backstrap loom is much smaller than its pedal-operated counterpart and consists mainly of strings, sticks and a strap that loops around the waist of the weaver - hence the name. In use, one end of the loom is tied to a tree or pole whilsthe weaver maintains tension with the other end. This means of manufacture is far more versatile thathe pedal loom, but is not capable of making pieces as large. Widely used throughout Central America since pre-Colombian times, the weaver works sitting on the floor or a bench, pulling a bar to and from her stomach. It is due to this that a weaver is often seen as 'giving birth to her fabric.
Designer: ONORA