Headwrap (xk'ap), c. 1970, 521 x 1 11/16 in. (1323.3 x 4.3 cm) (with tassels), Cotton, synthetic, metallic thread, Guatemala, 20th century, For generations, women of Santiago Atitlán have wound long, narrow, red bands around their heads to create a distinctive halo effect. The band forming the xk'ap can measure over 40 feet long and is said to represent the Rainbow Serpent. The Rainbow Serpent is equated with a spectacular natural phenomenon - the ethereal cosmic halo that sometimes encircles the moon on rainy nights.