Matilda

Matilda, originally uploaded by PAL1970.

This is Matilda, a 74 year old Maya woman of the Kakchikel ethnic group, one of the two main mayan groups in Guatemala. She has woven textiles all her life, and is very proud to be able to teach new generations her trade.

Handbags

Handbags, originally uploaded by PAL1970.

These handbags or purses are handmade from the "huipil" a pure cotton blouse worn by Mayan women. The indigenous dress' colors and designs are specific to each village. Since these hare highly costly and the "westernization" process of our native culture has advanced a lot, mayan people are slowly abandoning their traditional garments.

Guatemalan Textiles

Guatemalan Textiles, originally uploaded by PAL1970.

These are handmade from pure cotton. In the picture you can see mantelpieces, napkins and hotplate holders. Guatemalan indigenous people wear a different type of dress according to the village of their origin. Each village has its colors and designs.