Nahua cotton pants - Calzón de Manta
Name/Title
Nahua cotton pants - Calzón de MantaEntry/Object ID
2024.02.019Description
This traditional pair of Nahua men’s trousers, or calzón de manta, is constructed from high-quality, unwashed cotton muslin (manta). The unwashed fabric was easier to sew at the time of construction but was expected to shrink when washed. The trousers are cut wide and full in the leg, resulting in a distinctive voluminous silhouette, especially when worn. This "puffy" effect is emphasized by how the garment is wrapped and tied—tightening at the waist and ankles controls the final fit and form. The construction includes a wide gusset at the crotch, allowing for ease of movement and durability. Long waist ties are attached at the top of each front panel and ankle ties at the cuffs. The garment is hand-tailored and sewn using a treadle-powered sewing machine, reflecting a time before the village had electricity.Made/Created
Date made
circa 1975Ethnography
Cultural Region
* Untyped Cultural Region
Chachahuantla, Puebla, MexicoCulture/Tribe
Nahua