The Navajo people arrived in the southwest before the Spanish (who first arrived in the 1500s). Spanish and Mexican style weaving took place on the horizontal loom, a ponderous contraption. Fortunately, the Navajo weavers learned from the pueblo people of the Southwest, whose loom was a simple device and easily moved-an important attribute for the early Navajo lifestyle. Although pueblo men were traditionally the weavers, in Navajo culture, it was the women who evolved into the predominant weavers.

Along with pottery and baskets, blankets were utilitarian items. Early weaving focused on the making of sashes, dresses and blankets. The introduction of the railroad in the 1880s and the establishment of trading posts on the newly created Navajo reservation set the stage for an artistic boom which continues today. While early traders played a great role in the marketing of Navajo weavings by providing an outlet for wool, sheep, and weavings, Anglo influence on these same early designs, colors, and patterns started immediately. Lorence Hubbell favored deep reds and combed natural grey, J.B. Moore introduced different patterns to the weavers at Crystal Trading Post with some showing an Oriental influence. The use of commercial yarns created an explosion of color and designs which can be seen in some of today's Teec Nos Pos, Red Mesa, and Germantown revival weavings. Sally Lippincott of the Wide Ruins Trading Post encouraged the use of natural plant dyes which produced weavings of soft, beautiful colors, that resulted in today's Chinle, Wide Ruins, Burntwater, and Crystal weavings.

A few decades ago, many lamented the potential demise of Navajo weaving. Fortunately, the wide distribution of commercial yarns has helped reduce the economic burden for the weaver. With the ability to focus on the technical aspects of creation, artists are producing some of the finest quality work seen in the history of Navajo weaving.

Though our selection of rugs shown here is small, in the interest of not having to scroll through a large selection, we suggest you review what is here which should give you some indication of the quality of our rugs. You may then call us at 1-650-348-7888 (toll free) and let us know what specific designs of rugs you prefer. We can then send you a high quality photograph on plain paper for your selection.

There's no return of these photos or hassle if you do not wish to purchase from our collection.