Q’ero Despacho Cloth

In the Andean tradition, healing contains both light and dark, and should also always include joy.  This is one of the reasons we often see bold, bright colors adorning the rituals, textiles, and clothing of the Andean people. 
 
Handwoven with soft and hypoallergenic Alpaca wool, these brightly colored Andean Despacho cloths are made by the Q’ero tribe of the central mountains of Peru.  The Q’ero people are known for their beautiful weavings and their methods and designs are said to be the closest to those used by their Incan ancestors. 
 
Despacho is a traditional gratitude ceremony performed by the Andean people as a gift of reciprocity, giving back for all that we receive.  It is often performed to honor Pachamama, or the “Earth Mother”, who blesses us with all of her gifts and the beauty of nature. 
 
These cloths are traditionally used to hold Coca leaves and other offerings during a Despacho ceremony, however, they are wonderful as a foundation for a personal or travel altar and can be used anywhere you want to add texture and personality to your space.