Pic Today 10/28/11

FROM SHEEP TO LOOM:

THE BEAUTY OF NAVAJO WEAVING

These Navajo rugs are currently on display,

and just part of the woven collection at the Gilcrease Museum.

These traditional rugs were each hand woven

on vertical log looms, of handspun wool

from tribal sheep that are considered

an important part of the Navajo family.

Wools are hand dyed from natural, vegetable dyes.

Each Navajo rug takes 4 to 12 months to weave.

Weavings were originally used for blankets,

as well as door coverings for "hondo" winter dwellings.

Smaller rugs were woven and sold to

the tourist trade starting in the 1930s and 40s.

Original, older Navajo weavings from the

late 19th century can be worth $50,000 and more,

especially in excellent condition.

Each design has special spiritual significance

and represents earthly and heavenly powers.

Many of these rugs were purchased directly

from the Navajo weaver, or family,

by Thomas Gilcrease.