How To Identify Native American Rugs
Learning how to identify Native American rugs can help you get a great deal on your next rug. Some are made of real Navajo rugs, while others are made of cotton or linen. You can distinguish one from the other by its warp, which is usually a thick, woolen thread. Navajo rugs have a unique design and are generally not heirloom investments. To identify a genuine Navajo rug, look for documentation.
Navajo rugs are pictorial rugs
One of the most popular styles of Navajo rugs is pictorial. Featuring a wide variety of colors and scenes, pictorial rugs capture the Navajo way of life and celebrate the beauty of nature. Pictorial rugs also give a modern perspective on Navajo weaving. This is why pictorial rugs are so popular today. To learn more about this type of rug, read on.
Originally, Navajo weavers learned to weave on looms from the Pueblo people. Then, the Spanish introduced sheep, which facilitated the weaving process. Later, Navajo rugs became popular in eastern markets. Traders were the only means by which the Navajo people could connect with the outside world, and they tended to pay higher prices for rugs made by them.
They are not made from wool
Whether a Native American rug is made of wool or not depends on its construction. While wool is naturally black and white, it can be dyed, creating darker, richer colors. Sometimes, the color is obtained by carding together two or more different shades. Occasionally, it is a combination of both black and white. Whether a rug is made of wool or not is a matter of personal preference.
The Navajo and Hopi weavers create their pieces with a side selvage cord. This cord is often twisted and helps the weaver keep a straight edge. While not wool, many Navajo rugs are still classified as Navajo. If the cord is straight, it is probably not a Navajo rug. The fringe, however, is added for aesthetics.
They are not heirloom investments
Buying a Navajo rug is a good investment, but beware of fakes! The Navajos are known for producing rugs that are not worth much but can be beautiful. Authentic rugs are hand-woven by the Navajos on traditional upright looms and made of 100 percent wool. In order to preserve the integrity of authentic rugs, they should be bought only from reputable dealers. Steve Getzwiller, the owner of Nizhoni Ranch Gallery, works with local Navajo weavers to improve their craft and increase their income.
Many people wonder whether Navajo rugs are heirloom investments. The Navajos view weaving as a combination of natural and spiritual worlds. Many Navajos view weaving as a gift from Spider-Woman, their emergency deity. Consequently, professional Navajo weavers view rug creation as a way to connect with the spiritual world and create lucrative artwork.
They require documentation
As a collector, you may want to ensure the authenticity of your purchase by obtaining the necessary documentation. If you purchase a Navajo rug, for instance, be sure to inspect it thoroughly before buying it. While there may be some temporary wrinkles or creases from folding or stacking, these are temporary and may disappear with proper documentation. Look closely at the weaving on both sides of the rug to determine if there are significant defects. Ideally, the weaver should have straight edges and square corners, and the rug should have uniform colors.
Authentic Navajo rugs typically have a wool warp, while a Navajo rug made with cotton or linen has a smoother appearance. Both types of materials have a similar appearance, but wool tends to have little fibers sticking out of the warp threads. In the 1800s, cotton and linen were widely used as warp. Navajo rugs require documentation, and authentic ones should come with the original paperwork.
