The alpaca was considered a sacred animal at the time of the Incan Empire. Because its silkiness and fine texture, during the reign of the Incan empire, alpaca fiber was reserved for the use of the Incan royalty.
For centuries the pre-Inca and Inca civilizations in the highlands of the Peruvian Andes have been distinguished by their colorful and sophisticated textiles. The art of knitting and weaving was an integral part of the Incan culture. Religious beliefs, feelings, desires and traditions, all were expressed in the textile work of the Andean people. Textile art was taught and perfected from one generation to another and became the precious link of communication through many generations.
Today alpaca fiber is internationally known as one of the finest fiber in the world after that of the Vicuña. Alpaca fiber is light-weight yet provides much more warmth than sheep's wool. It has a hollow core, which acts as a great insulator in cold, outdoor temperatures. It is soft to the |
