Explore the CollectionBreastplate

Measurements

86.5cm x 48.5cm

Place of Origin

Peru

Historical Period/Date

20th Century (1970-1999 Late)/1970s

Registration Number

1987-027

Donated/Purchased

Donated

Techniques

Appliqué,Metal Thread Embroidery,

Objects

Bibs,Ceremonial Textiles,Costume Accessories - Men,

Physical Description

A large Peruvian collar, man's bib or breastplate. The central design depicts a man with flowing black hair in a long frock coat, breeches, boots and a hat, carrying a sword and riding a grey horse. Either side of the horse and rider are two exotic birds with long tail feathers. There are flying fish on either side of the neck opening. The background is covered with padded flowers and leaves, beads and sequins. There are three fairly large round mirrors, each ringed with sequins standing upright to make a frame. The embroidery on a blue satin ground is in appliqué and surface sitchery with many applied wrapped and padded shapes. These appear to be of cardboard or felt and are wrapped in brightly coloured silks and silver thread. There are sequins, glass beads and mirrors. The embroidery is backed with white, loosely woven cotton fabric over which newspaper (Spanish language) has been pasted.