A HISTORY OF NAVAJO WEAVING
fairly thin, tightly woven weaving can be dated approximately 1875 - 1900. If the piece is heavier, more in keeping with a rug, it probably dates from 1890 to the present. A rug of this later period, regardless of it's pattern, is rarely considered as an example of the Classic Period of Navajo Weaving, but is a highly collectible piece showing the influence and carryover of design and techniques to that which the economy dictated be made.
Note: Dates are generalizations only - some First Phase patterns were woven in the late 1890's for example. The type of wool is a better dating tool.
EYE DAZZLER (1880 - 1900) The influx of Germantown three and four ply yarn entered the Navajo weaving story in the 1880's. The brilliant colors, and the Navajo weavers thirst for this color, resulted in an additional style to the sedate "Chief's Patterns." Germantown yarn gave birth to the "Eye Dazzler." Billiant reds, greens, yellows, blues, and more found their way into blankets and wall hangings. At this same time aniline dyes were stocked by the trading posts. These chemical dyes gave the weaver a greater variety of colors and were far easier to use. Until 1890, most of the weaving was for wearing blankets. However, once the product of the Pendleton Woolen Mills was introduced, the need ended. The Pendleton (still used today) was lighter, warmer, every bit as colorful and much less expensive. Navajo weaving declined. It probably would have died except that the non-Indian people started using Navajo blankets as floor coverings, bed spreads and wall hangings. This resurrection of demand, coupled with pattern changes and a heavier style of weaving, largely instituted by the reservation traders, undoubtedly saved the craft. The transition was not immediate. Germantown weavings were done well into the 20th Century, but now with a definite eye to balance the pattern This yarn was more expensive and only used by the better weavers.
EARLY RUG PERIOD ( late 1800's - 1920) The transition from blankets to rugs actually had its beginning in the 1880's. Although Navajo weaving of that period was principally for wearing blankets, a new market for rugs and tapestries was growing.
The salvation of the weaving art and its huge growth atthe turn of the century is largely attributed to two men. Lorenzo Hubble of the Ganado Trading Post, and 1.8. Moore of the Crystal Trading Post. Both of these men envisioned a market for Navajoweaving,
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