Indigenous bag handmade by Iku tribe, Colombia 100% raw wool 12''x8''

Description

Each mochila is unique, because the design depends on the women's inspiration. Out of respect with their traditions and artistic expression, they are not forced to make a specific design or exact size. DAGUA only sells vegan products, but taking into account the profound respect this community has for their animals, and the fact that they are mainly vegetarian, I decided to buy directly from them to support this beautiful tribe. Bags origin: Although the whole Iku community is involved in production, only Wati (Arhuaco women) can weave the bags, according to their tradition. The women learn to weave from an early age by watching their mothers and the first mochila they make is given to the priest for the rituals of the life cycle. The colors with which the mochilas are woven are earth tones and are never dyed. It's the sheep color! Originally they were woven with natural fibers from the Arahuaco lands, such as agave and cotton, but the Spanish introduced sheep and currently mochilas are made of 100% untreated sheep wool. They are not washed by the tribe so they still have a natural sheep scent. The bags carry indigenous drawings or representations of animals and other objects of their cosmology. Each design is unique and identifies families. Who are they: The Iku are an indigenous people of Colombia. They are descendants of the Tairona culture (search for "Ciudad perdida" (lost city), you will be blown away!), concentrated in northern Colombia in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. The Iku are also known as the Arhuaco, Bintucua, Bintuk, Bíntukua, Ica, Ijca, Ijka, Ika, and Ike people. Spirituality: The Arhuacos are a deeply spiritual and knowledgeable people. They believe in the existence of a Creator and Great Father, Kakü Serankua. Look for Aluna the movie to learn more about them.