Early pre-Hispanic use of indigo blue in Peru
Archaeological research has identified the use of cultivated cotton (Gossypium barbadense) in the ancient Andes dating back to at least 7800 years ago
An international team of scientists has discovered the oldest in the world of fabric, dyed indigo. At present, this dyestuff is used in the manufacture of jeans. Description was published in the journal Science.
The artifact was found at Huaca Prieta (Huaca Prieta) - a hill on the northern coast of Peru. According to scientists, when they found a piece of cotton fabric, its color was indistinguishable because of the gray mud. However, after thoroughly washing it turned out that he was covered in blue paint. The results of chemical analysis showed that the composition consisted of the the key components of indigo.