Weaving an Empire: Textiles of the Inka World

August 15-December 19, 2026

In the 15th century, the Inka kingdom rapidly expanded beyond the Cusco Valley to become the world’s largest empire, occupying much of South America’s western region. Weaving an Empire displays rarely seen garments from the diverse communities under Inka rule who dressed to reflect allegiance to the empire and their own local styles and traditions.
 

Lead support for this exhibition is provided by the Western Hemisphere Curatorial Scholarship Fund. Additional support is provided by Corinne M. Berezuk, Tina M. deVries, and Roger and Claire Pratt. 

Image: Tunic (detail); Peru, south coast; 1400-1540. The Textile Museum Collection 91.843. Museum purchase.