The town of Colotenango is located in the highlands of the Cuchumatanes in Huehuetenango. Its name comes from the Nahuatl, which signifies “Walled Place Inhabited by Scorpions”. Traditionally the huipiles from Colotenango are woven in three panels, but this colourful huipil is woven in two panels on a back strap loom; simulating three panels. It has a red and white striped background. The opening for the head is cut out in a square shape and is decorated with a fine red, green and yellow hand embroidery stitching. The geometric designs are brocaded with cotton and symbolized the planets, stars and Maya cross.
Age: Approximately woven in the 1960’s
Ethnic Group: Mam
Origin: Colotenango, Huehuetenango
Materials: Cotton.
Use: Every day Huipil
Technique: Woven on a back strap loom
Size: Approximately 33” x 19”