How to Identify Step Pattern Navajo Rugs
Whether you’re buying a Navajo rug for the first time or you’ve had one for many years, you’re probably wondering how to identify step-pattern rugs. They have fourfold symmetry, are finely woven, flexible, and dyed with a plant source. Read on to find out how to identify step pattern Navajo rugs and get the right rug for your home.
Navajo rugs have a fourfold symmetry
Navajo rugs feature intricate patterns and the harmony, balance, and order they promote. They reflect the Navajo belief that everything is interconnected. The most common Navajo rug pattern is fourfold symmetry, which is found in most designs. This symmetry is said to be symbolic of the Navajo way of life, which emphasizes the idea that wealth, art, and philosophy are all parts of the same cosmic whole.
They are finely woven
Often referred to as “Navajo rug art,” Step Pattern rugs are intricately woven in the Navajo style. They are very finely woven and contain numerous decorative elements. Their rich colors and patterning are often influenced by the traditional patterns found in Navajo blankets. A fine example of this type of rug is the Two Grey Hills, a village located in western New Mexico. Its signature feature is a diamond-shaped center medallion. The edges of the rug often have corner motifs and a narrow geometric border.
They are flexible
If you are in the market for a new rug, you may want to consider a Navajo Step Pattern rug. These rugs are both attractive and functional. The Navajo people were a group of indigenous Native Americans who migrated to the Southwest from Canada in the 15th century. Their textiles reflect their traditions, beliefs, and cultural practices. Because they were not exposed to European influences or colonial rule, Navajo rugs were created in a highly flexible manner.
They are dyed from a plant source
Traditional vegetal dyes are more subtle and difficult to achieve. This process uses natural sources such as rabbitbrush, chorizo, and canyorgre. A weaver spends a whole year collecting these plant sources to make their step-pattern Navajo rugs. However, the availability of these plants varies from year to year. Vegetal dyed rugs are valued for their extra care and attention to detail.
They have tassels
Whether a Step Pattern Navajo Rug has tassels is up for debate. These colorful accessories are a part of a traditional Navajo design, and they are a great way to add character to your living space. Tassels, or cords, are a result of weaving beyond the weaving pattern. The cords are tied to prevent raveling, and additional yarns are often attached to the ends to add extra embellishment. The Navajo people called the trading post “Teec Nos Pos,” which means “circle of cottonwood trees”. During the transitional period, Navajo weavers began developing more complex geometric designs based on a central hook. In this pattern, multiple geometric borders often overlap.
