Native American Wool Area Rugs

southwestern area rug

The rugs that are from Navajo are considered to be some of the best-made and most colorful textile products. As the name suggests, these rugs originated in the Navajo tribe. This tribe settled in the southwestern part of the United States in the 10th and 11th centuries. And they became well established by 1500. In the early 1800s, the tribal women of Navajo started to weave chief’s blankets. These blankets were widely traded, making the Indians from the northern Great Plains to the Mexican border wear them. Although, the blankets were not a symbol of chieftainship. But they were a symbol of affluence and power.

This video is essential viewing for beginning and seasoned collectors. It will teach you how to distinguish between authentic Navajo weavings. Because the type of weaving determines the price of the textile, it is essential that you know the difference between a Navajo Navajo rug and a Navajo cloth. Dr. J. Dr. J. Sublette discusses how to properly care for authentic Navajo rugs.

native american rugs inspired art lessons

As of publication, the average price for these textiles is between $40 and $50. Germantown rugs, which are authentic Navajo rugs, do not have fringe. Rare antique rugs with fringe have been added to the rug after it was finished weaving. Almost all Navajo rugs contain wool threads. They are rougher than cotton and linen, but they make up the majority of Navajo rugs. The rug is likely fake if it has fringe or ridges around the edges. Ridges will form on the ends of warp threads which have been cut and then run into the rug. You may have noticed that prices vary for all rugs. Some rugs are priced well below the budget range while others can go beyond that. Navajo rugs rank number one among the most expensive. Navajo rugs seem so expensive. They are also a part of history. These rugs are secondly crafted with great skill, as you will see.

native american rugs inspired art lessons
native american rugs paiute design
native american rugs paiute design

Single Saddle Blankets were roughly 30″ square, and Double Saddle Blankets were of similar width, but about twice and long and were doubled over when in use to provide extra padding. Early saddle blankets often were woven in simple striped patterns, and double saddle blankets now are sometimes difficult to distinguish from Transitional wearing blankets. By the end of the period, saddle blankets frequently had patterns only at the corners or edges since only those parts of the blanket were visible when in use. Double saddle blankets sometimes had a different pattern on each half. Fancy Saddle Blankets, often featuring bright colors, elaborate patterns and fringes, were probably more for show than function.