Universo Lumbar Pillow
Explore the Universo—Spanish for “universe”—through this one-of-a-kind, handwoven pillow, created by skilled weavers in Nahuala using the traditional backstrap loom. At its center is the diamond motif, a sacred symbol in Maya textiles representing the four corners of the universe and the sun’s path across the sky. Chosen to coordinate with the collection, the diamond reflects themes of harmony, direction, and connection—anchoring the piece in both cultural meaning and visual balance.
This pillow is crafted using the brocade technique, one of the most intricate forms of backstrap weaving. The weaver lifts each warp thread by hand, placing a supplementary weft in a contrasting color to form the diamond—row by row, thread by thread. The pattern is not drawn or planned on paper but passed down through memory and reference to heirloom textiles within the community. The process is slow, deeply skilled, and highly labor-intensive, preserving both the physical form and the storytelling tradition of Maya heritage.
Finished by Irma with hand-twisted cording, this pillow carries another layer of craftsmanship often overlooked in mass production. Each cord is made by tightly twisting strands of thread by hand—sometimes with the help of a simple tool, but often done entirely with the artisan’s fingers and practiced technique. The process requires careful tension and consistency to create an even, durable trim that not only frames the pillow but also enhances its texture and form.
This detail, while subtle, speaks to the care and time invested in every stage of the piece. In many communities, hand-twisting cords is a communal or meditative act, echoing the values of patience, pride, and continuity that define traditional craft. It’s a small but powerful reminder of the human touch behind every element—from the brocade pattern to the very edge of the design.
PRODUCTION TIME: 23 Hours
Explore the Universo—Spanish for “universe”—through this one-of-a-kind, handwoven pillow, created by skilled weavers in Nahuala using the traditional backstrap loom. At its center is the diamond motif, a sacred symbol in Maya textiles representing the four corners of the universe and the sun’s path across the sky. Chosen to coordinate with the collection, the diamond reflects themes of harmony, direction, and connection—anchoring the piece in both cultural meaning and visual balance.
This pillow is crafted using the brocade technique, one of the most intricate forms of backstrap weaving. The weaver lifts each warp thread by hand, placing a supplementary weft in a contrasting color to form the diamond—row by row, thread by thread. The pattern is not drawn or planned on paper but passed down through memory and reference to heirloom textiles within the community. The process is slow, deeply skilled, and highly labor-intensive, preserving both the physical form and the storytelling tradition of Maya heritage.
Finished by Irma with hand-twisted cording, this pillow carries another layer of craftsmanship often overlooked in mass production. Each cord is made by tightly twisting strands of thread by hand—sometimes with the help of a simple tool, but often done entirely with the artisan’s fingers and practiced technique. The process requires careful tension and consistency to create an even, durable trim that not only frames the pillow but also enhances its texture and form.
This detail, while subtle, speaks to the care and time invested in every stage of the piece. In many communities, hand-twisting cords is a communal or meditative act, echoing the values of patience, pride, and continuity that define traditional craft. It’s a small but powerful reminder of the human touch behind every element—from the brocade pattern to the very edge of the design.
PRODUCTION TIME: 23 Hours
Explore the Universo—Spanish for “universe”—through this one-of-a-kind, handwoven pillow, created by skilled weavers in Nahuala using the traditional backstrap loom. At its center is the diamond motif, a sacred symbol in Maya textiles representing the four corners of the universe and the sun’s path across the sky. Chosen to coordinate with the collection, the diamond reflects themes of harmony, direction, and connection—anchoring the piece in both cultural meaning and visual balance.
This pillow is crafted using the brocade technique, one of the most intricate forms of backstrap weaving. The weaver lifts each warp thread by hand, placing a supplementary weft in a contrasting color to form the diamond—row by row, thread by thread. The pattern is not drawn or planned on paper but passed down through memory and reference to heirloom textiles within the community. The process is slow, deeply skilled, and highly labor-intensive, preserving both the physical form and the storytelling tradition of Maya heritage.
Finished by Irma with hand-twisted cording, this pillow carries another layer of craftsmanship often overlooked in mass production. Each cord is made by tightly twisting strands of thread by hand—sometimes with the help of a simple tool, but often done entirely with the artisan’s fingers and practiced technique. The process requires careful tension and consistency to create an even, durable trim that not only frames the pillow but also enhances its texture and form.
This detail, while subtle, speaks to the care and time invested in every stage of the piece. In many communities, hand-twisting cords is a communal or meditative act, echoing the values of patience, pride, and continuity that define traditional craft. It’s a small but powerful reminder of the human touch behind every element—from the brocade pattern to the very edge of the design.
PRODUCTION TIME: 23 Hours
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MATERIALS: 100% Cotton
ORIGIN: GuatemalaDIMENSIONS: 20”W x 12”H
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Spot clean or gently hand wash in cold water. Use a mild detergent and wash each product separately. Hang or lay flat to dry. Do not dry clean.
For more information on the inherent attributes of handwoven fabrics, and how to care for your textiles, please visit our FAQ page.
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There is limited stock available of this item. If you require a quantity that is greater than what we have in stock, please email us at sales@rbcurated.com and we will work with you to produce additional product. Production lead-time is 14-16 weeks.
For more information about our shipping policies, please visit our Terms & Conditions page.
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Thank you for your purchase. Each piece is handcrafted by master artisans and inspected before shipping. Minor imperfections and color variations are natural and add to the character and beauty of our artisanal goods.
As all items are made to order, we do not accept returns. For bedding or fabric by the yard, we recommend ordering a memo sample or CFA before purchase. If your item arrives damaged, please send us photos at sales@rbcureted.com and we will review the issue.
For more information about our return policies, please visit our Terms & Conditions page.
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