Provincial Wari

Provincial Wari refers to the period and stylistic production, primarily textile-based, associated with the Wari civilization near its apex around 800 CE. Located in the central Andes, Wari culture was renowned for its high-quality fiber arts, which often served administrative and ceremonial functions across a vast imperial territory.

The known artistic output is defined by sophisticated weaving and intricate iconography, demonstrating mastery of structure and design typical of pre-Columbian highland traditions. Eight textile works attributed to this period are represented in museum collections. These examples provide critical documentation of the materials, dyes, and complex geometric patterning utilized during the period.

Works held in institutional settings include a complete textile Band as well as multiple documented works listed as Fragment and Fragment (Band). These significant archaeological objects are preserved at the Art Institute of Chicago, among other major institutions. Though the original textiles are fragile museum-quality artifacts, the detailed iconography of Provincial Wari prints and patterns is widely accessible through high-quality prints and digitized records, sometimes entering the public domain.