| In the pre–Hispanic times inhabitants of distant areas like the desert puna or the tropical forest meet during celebrations to exchange this products and handcrafts. Lots of these old techniques were preserved up to these days through generations of craftsmen that also incorporated the Hispanic contributions. Textiles: In the Puna, llama and sheep wool is knitted or woven in looms. However, the biggest textile production comes from the valleys, where loom art has become one of the most important traditions. People weave blankets, quilts, carpets, tapestries, ponchos, sashes, bags, saddle accessories and strong warm fabrics called “picote” and “barracán”. Also in Santa Victoria and Iruya you can find some articles like blankets or “pullos”, ponchos, sashes and saddlebags of bright colours. In the north and east of the province, people have been working the fibres of a local plant called “chaguar” for hundred of years. They produce beautiful items like bags and carpets. Basketwork: In the south of the Calchaqui valleys people make baskets from the fibres of local plants like “poleo” and “simbol”. Ceramics: the most important production is found in Cachi, Cafayate and San Carlos and it comes from ancient aboriginal times. Wood carving: it is very important in the north of the province where wood and forests are abundant. The Wichi people use different kinds of local woods like “palo santo”, “guayacán”, “quebracho” and “mistol”. Leather, horn and silver articles: these crafts are related to the gaucho tradition and life in the country. They are found around the province. Chané masks: the Chané people make these masks from wood of “yuchán” and “palo borracho”, trees found in the Chaco jungle. |
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