The Llama, the Incas, Perú and the Andes
by Charles Young and Karl Klooster

The Inca Empire
continued)

Efficient administrators, outstanding engineers, brave and resourceful soldiers, the Incas have been called the Romans of the Western world. But as much as they excelled in the big things, they also demonstrated an amazing mastery of everyday materials.

Their textiles of both wool and cotton are considered among the finest ever produced. In addition to their quality and durability, they are a feast for the eyes, lavishly adorned with intricate and elaborate designs - stylized flora and fauna, mythological gods and demons.

As if all this is not enough, the stunning colors set them head and shoulders above the work of any other ancient culture. The dyes used to create patterns on the fabric have remained virtually unchanged over the course of hundreds of years.

Experts have discerned as many as 140 different tints in a single garment. In the words of one knowledgeable observer, "they pulsate with the brilliance of a rainbow." Furthermore, modern chemistry has been unable to duplicate them.

No recounting of the Inca culture would be complete without mentioning the splendor of its artistic artifacts long sought after by collectors. Exquisitely designed gold and silver jewelry, often inset with precious stones were worn by the nobility, masks and figurines of solid gold or silver, ceremonial goblets, belts and breastplates, all are marvels of elegance and refined artistry.

As makers of earthenware, the Incas were unsurpassed. The skill of their workmanship in ceramics and pottery is the envy of modern craftsmen.

Almost all the items were functional yet so lavishly adorned they are almost too attractive to use. Highly polished, finished surfaces were painted with stylized motifs representing plants and animals. Sometimes, ceremonial scenes were depicted. And, just as with their fabric dyes, the colors remain rich and vibrant to this day.