Red huipil with geometric and animal motives

Unknown artist

The huipil is woven in a hip loom with industrialized cotton and artificial silk. On the huipil there are brocades and embroideries. A brocade is a decorative technique where extra threads are added to the warp and weft during the weaving itself. An embroidery is a decorative technique where extra threads are added to the fabric when it is finished. In addition, the huipil consists of two pieces of woven fabric.A huipil is used exclusively by women to cover the upper part of the body (torso, shoulders). This huipil is intended for daily use. The background color of the huipil is red. Furthermore, the huipil is decorated with geometric and animal motifs in different colors.\Now, Patzicia is located in the department of Chimaltenango. In 2007, Patzicia had a population of 29,299, of which 26,805 belong to the Kaqchikel culture. \The name comes from the Kaqchikel and means `dog and water' or `dog of the water'. Probably this name is linked to the proximity of the river Tziyá. The origins of Patzicía date back to pre-colonial times, probably to the 12th century. In 1545 the Spanish conquerors arrived in the area. Shortly after, the first missionaries arrived. \Today the main sources of income are agriculture, trade and crafts. 30% of the population has a job.