Chancay Funeral Doll (early 20th)

The Chancay culture developed between the 12th and 16th centuries in the fertile valleys of Chancay, Rimac, Huaura and Chillón, on the central coast of Peru. The Chancay people were renowned for their expertise in textile work, embroidery, weaving and fabric dyeing. They created numerous adornments and garments. Their great mastery of textiles was naturally reflected in religious rituals and ceremonies. The Chancay left few architectural remains, but their ceramic and textile art remains memorable. Numerous graves have been found containing various offerings, including finely embroidered figurines. These were intended to evoke key moments in the life of the deceased, but also to guarantee protection in the afterlife.They were sewn from the person's fabric and their favourite clothes.These dolls were placed with the deceased in their grave or sometimes in the person's former home. 

Size of the doll : 30 cm