Serape

Unidentified

ca. 1840–50 · Wool · The American Wing

Serapes (the Spanish term for blanket) are a prominent form of Navajo weaving. In the early nineteenth century, they became seen as garments of prestige among a range of Southwest residents, as well as a high-value trade item. Vibrantly colored and vividly patterned, these so-called wearing blankets build on long-established design themes. The horizontal lines and diamond shapes of this classic example—referred to by some as a rare "radio-wave" pattern—are characteristic of Southwest Native American design, reflecting varied weaving traditions and artistic exchange among Native and Hispanic communities.

Artist

Unidentified

Date

ca. 1840–50

Medium

Wool

Culture

Diné/Navajo

Department

The American Wing

Credit line

Gift of John and Margot Ernst, in celebration of the Museum's 150th Anniversary, 2019