Los Mapuche Research Paper

522 Words2 Pages

Los Mapuches is a tribe of south america indian people who inhabit south-central chile. The name Mapuche means “people of the earth”. “They are known for their beautiful metal work, especially jewelry such as their head dresses and necklaces”(Textile arts of the Mapuche of Chile). The traditional dress of the Mapuche men is simple and practical, consisting of a shirt, a breechcloth, and the poncho. In pre-Hispanic times, the Mapuche were nomadic fishermen, hunters, and gatherers, wearing furs and covering their tents with animal skins. “The influence of the silver coin from the Spaniards had a major affect on their craftsmanship. When a member of the Mapuche dies, a wooden carving known and a chemamull is placed to mark the grave site. Each …show more content…

Handwoven textiles are divided into four categories: clothing, horse equipment, utilitarian items, and items for the tourist trade. Blankets, saddle blankets, bedspreads, rugs, sashes, and bags are among the woven textiles. A small portion of the woven products is destined for family use, but the larger share is taken to the market. The some half million surviving members have been known for the profoundly spiritual relationship they have maintained with the land and the natural environment, as well as for their fierce sense of independence. The traditional dress of the Mapuche men is simple and practical, consisting of a shirt, a breechcloth, and the poncho. The woman’s dress (kepam) is a finely Herrick 2 woven wool rectangle that is wrapped around a woman’s body with her left shoulder exposed and fastened on the right shoulder with silver jewelry or, more recently, safety pins, and secured at the waist with a woven belt. In pre-Hispanic times, the Mapuche were nomadic fishermen, hunters, and gatherers, wearing furs and covering their tents with animal skins. After becoming familiar with agriculture, they became skilled in weaving, basketry, and pottery. The Inka introduced

More about Los Mapuche Research Paper

Open Document