Tanate Totonicapán

Tightly wrapped and radiating with color, Tanate Totonicapán by David Ordoñez Lacayo transforms an everyday object into a bold visual statement. The tanate—a traditional woven bundle used for carrying goods—is presented here not in a market scene, but isolated, almost sculptural, allowing its intricate textile design to take center stage. Bursting with intersecting lines of red, violet, turquoise, and gold, the composition pulses with energy, movement, and craftsmanship. By focusing on the tanate alone, Lacayo elevates this utilitarian object into a symbol of cultural identity. The detailed patterns reflect the weaving traditions of Totonicapán, a region known for its vibrant Maya K'iche' textiles. The soft shadows and framing enhance the bundle’s form, turning it into a celebration of form, function, and memory.