Kené cloth (Shipibo-Conibo)
Maker Once Known, Shipibo-Conibo People (Peru)
Kené cloth (20th century)
cotton, synthetic yarn
141.0 x 66.0 cm
Purchased with the Docent Program Fund
94-223ED
This is a length if Kené cloth, created by Shipibo-Conibo woman from commercially woven cotton cloth embroidered with a synthetic yarn in the geometric maze like designs characteristic of kené art. To learn more about kené, visit this page on a Kené textile photographed during the Textile project. When the Textile Team encountered this piece, Head Curator Thierry Gentis remarked that "this geometric pattern is a reference to the Great Boa that encircles the world in Shipibo-Conibo mythos- the Amazon River." As explained in this post on Kené,
Thierry also noted that "This length of cloth may be used for a wrap around skirt or a shoulder covering, but it is slightly off the usual measurements for both of these garments, so its intended use is ambiguous.""One of the core concepts in understanding Kené is the notion of 'cano,' or 'path.' The Shipibo believe that the designs serve as pathways that link the physical and spiritual worlds. The intricate lines and curves of the patterns mirror the winding rivers of the Amazon, the veins of a lead, or the ethereal paths traversed by the soul after death. By adorning themselves and their surroundings with these sacred designs, the shipibo remind themselves of the intricate web of energy that connects all beings."
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- Clothing - Wearable Art Jessica Nelson