Peruvian Ponchos

Ponchos are a multi use – personal and spiritual – textile in the Andes. While they are worn for warmth, they are a personal connection to the alpaca whom the shepherds are taking care of. Ponchos are used as drop cloths on the grassy altiplano meadows up high, and down in the lower sacred spaces, like Macho Picchu. They are often used as a base for a Despacho Ceremony, with a small group of people sitting around. A shaman might invite a person to stand on a poncho to receive rites.

Ponchos create a protective layer as well. The Q’ero shaman believe that their ponchos protect them energetically, as well as physically. Ponchos have also been wrapped around larger mesas, and as warm throws on couches.  Handmade with natural fibers, and natural dyes.

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