chumpi (Belt)

Belts of different types are used by men, women, and children, and some have special names. Most belts are called chumpi (Quechua) or cinterone (Spanish). Some belts are associated with pregnant women and their babies, where they are used to fasten the swaddling cloths around the infant. Belts for children are usually smaller in size. In some areas, very wide belts are worn with a stiff underbelt, which acts as a back support. Belts in Andean villages are usually made on a continuous warp and the last few inches are finished by braiding. A wide variety of techniques are used to pattern the belts. The imagery woven on belts is usually drawn from a set of geometric and figurative icons that are combined in ways that are distinctive of a particular community. The shortness of this belt may indicate it was made for a child.

Purchased by the donor in Sucre, Bolivia in 1983, however Frame believes it was made in the Macha region, based on the colours, weave and design.

Woven in warp-faced double cloth; it has the same chevron pattern on both faces but with colours in opposite positions.

Short belt (chumpi or cinta) with transverse chevrons repeated along its length; ends are finished in loop-end braids that are fastened together and narrow ties are attached to each end of the belt.