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Vintage 1930s Navajo Pictorial Rug, Airplane Design in Red, Gray, Ivory Wool

About the Item

This striking vintage Navajo pictorial rug, woven circa 1940s during the Trading Post Era, is a rare and vibrant example of mid-20th century Southwestern textile art. Handwoven by a Diné (Navajo) weaver, the design showcases four stylized airplane motifs—a nod to modernity—surrounded by a dynamic border and multiple male figures wearing hats, adding both personality and narrative to the piece. Crafted from native hand-spun wool, the weaving features a bold and balanced color palette, including rich reds, golden yellows, sky blue, dark brown/black, gray, and ivory. The use of commercial aniline dyes alongside natural fleece colors is typical of the Trading Post Era, when weavers were increasingly incorporating contemporary elements into traditional techniques. Measuring 96 x 52¾ inches, this substantial textile is mounted and ready to hang, making it ideal for display as a wall tapestry in a modern interior, gallery setting, or curated folk art collection. The large format and pictorial design make it a true statement piece. The Diné (Navajo) people, Indigenous to the Southwestern United States, are internationally celebrated for their intricate and culturally significant weaving traditions. Pictorial rugs like this one—featuring representational elements such as animals, people, or modern objects—are especially prized by collectors for their visual storytelling and historical context. This 1940s Navajo weaving is a compelling fusion of Indigenous tradition and 20th-century influence, embodying the innovation, adaptability, and artistry of the Navajo people.
  • Creator:
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 96 in (243.84 cm)Width: 52.75 in (133.99 cm)Depth: 2 in (5.08 cm)
  • Style:
    Native American (In the Style Of)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Wool,Hand-Woven
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    circa 1940
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses. Minor fading.
  • Seller Location:
    Denver, CO
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: 265131stDibs: LU1004630492022

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