......an excerpt from Cheryl Oberle's book - Folk Shawls

"Textiles are part of many ancient rituals in Mexico and South America, while shawls and wraps are an intrinsic part of daily clothing. The rebozo developed from native clothing among the Indian and Mestizo population during Spanish rule. A simple rectangle, the rebozo is often made from wool or cotton in stripes of bright colors. Fringes are added, sometimes tied into intricate knotted patters to represent good fortune. The rebozo is an all-purpose garment worn as a coat or headcovering, or used to hold a child or support a basket or jar that is carried on the head."