Maya of Zinacantan
For centuries, the
Tzotzil Maya of Zinacantan have controlled the only source of salt in the
Chiapas Highlands. Before the Spanish Conquest, Zinacanteco merchants
traded the salt for amber, cacao, and quetzal feathers from the Chiapas
lowlands, which they then sold to the Aztec traders who came from central
Mexico. This link between the Zinacantecos and the Aztecs explains why the
Zinacantecan weavers create Aztec-style garments, particularly the
spectacular feathered wedding huipil . The art of weaving feathers into
cloth was practiced throughout Middle America, but now only survives in
Zinacantan. The Zinacanteco men's costume was strongly influenced by the
coming of the Spanish. The black tunic and felt hat worn by religious
officials today are similar to 16th century Spanish clothing. The scarf
with tassles on the four corners was used before the Conquest. The long
ribbons on the man's everyday palm hat appear to be an imitation of bird
feathers.
(top right) Zinacantec salt seller at market.
(bottom right) Xunka Tulan of Nabenchauc, Zinacantan stretching thread on a warping board.
Maya of Highland Chiapas
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