Chinchero Shaman Mestana Mesa Cloth (M55-C) - Sacred Andean Textile

In the high Andes above Cusco, weaving is a sacred art — a form of storytelling, prayer, and lineage carried through colour and pattern. This Mestana cloth comes from communities connected to the Sacred Valley and the powerful mountain spirits (apus) such as Ausangate and Salkantay, landscapes that shape both the people and their weaving traditions.

A Cloth of Meaning and Softness

Unlike heavier traditional sheep-wool mestanas, this piece is woven with fine alpaca yarn, resulting in a smoother texture and more refined drape while still holding strong ceremonial presence. It is ideal for those who prefer a softer cloth for wrapping sacred items or creating a personal altar space.

What Is a Mestana Mesa Cloth?

A mestana is a personal ceremonial cloth used to:

• Hold sacred stones (khuyas)
• Wrap power objects
• Create a portable altar space
• Form the foundation of a medicine bundle

Symbolically, the outer cloth represents your outer life and physical world, while smaller inner cloths (unkunas or wachalas) placed inside symbolise the inner world. A mesa tie binds them together — just as spirit, heart, and body are held in right relationship.

A Cloth of Birth and Becoming

Traditionally, cloths like these were used as birthing cloths, welcoming new life into the world. In spiritual practice, they now support us in birthing ourselves anew as we walk our healing and awakening path.

Each weaving family carries its own symbolic language. Patterns may express:

• Pachamama (Earth / grounding energy)
• Inti (Sun / life force)
• Duality — masculine and feminine, left and right
• Movement between the three worlds of Andean cosmology

Every cloth has its own energetic personality and story.

Ethical & Cultural Integrity

These textiles are obtained through respectful, fair exchange that allows Andean families to remain on their ancestral lands. Trade may be monetary or in essential goods such as flour, maize, rice, or sugar, depending on community needs.

Aged & Authentic Textiles

Our textiles are purchased directly from individuals and weaving families — never factories. Some pieces are ceremonial and aged; others, like this one, are fresh from the loom. Any signs of ceremonial use are always clearly stated.

Regional Lineage

These traditions come from communities high in the Andes connected to Ausangate, one of the most sacred mountains. Weaving styles, colour balance, and symbolic layouts vary by village and family lineage, making every cloth unique.

Some Q’ero cloths are woven in two joined halves, representing duality — masculine and feminine, left and right, and the union of opposites.

Care Guidance

• Hand wash gently in cool water with natural soap if required

• Do not machine wash

• Wax can be lifted using paper and gentle warmth from an iron

• Natural wear adds character and story to the cloth

FAQs

What makes this cloth different from others?

This mestana uses finer alpaca yarn, giving it a softer texture and more delicate weave while still carrying traditional symbolism.

What is a mestana used for?

It forms the foundation of a personal Andean altar, holding sacred objects, stones, and ritual items during prayer and ceremony.

Is this suitable for beginners?

Yes, this size is ideal for personal practice and medicine wheel students.

Are the colours natural?

Yes. The fibres are dyed with traditional plant-based dyes.

Why do sizes vary slightly?

Each cloth is woven entirely by hand on a backstrap loom, so small variations are part of its authenticity.