Navajo on the Rise

The Navajo Tribes of North America have a long and rich tradition as skilled weavers, with their craftsmanship on display in private collections and leading museums worldwide. Two auctions running live on Bidsquare in the next few weeks will offer prized examples of their work, and with the Smithsonian New York currently running a successful Navajo exhibit, what better time to invest in artistry from these proud and noble people?

John Moran Auctioneers’ HQ American West sale, set down for Saturday, May 30, offers a host of great options for those looking to invest in Navajo weaving. Lots 66 (below), 136 & 137 come from the Teec Nos Pos, a Navajo community in Arizona famed for their intricate detailing. These classic designs, dating back to mid-20th Century, are typical of the community’s signature style.

During the Navajo regional rug period 1940 to 1974, several geographic areas of the southwest emerged as Navajo Indian rug art or style centers. Navajo blankets and Navajo weavings from one region became notably different from Navajo weavings of another region. Lot 86 (below), a Navajo rug from the southwest regional, dates from this period.

Not to be outdone, Leslie Hindman Auctioneers present a strong Navajo showing on Saturday, June 6 at their Arts of the American West sale. Lot 228 (below) is yet another beautiful work from the Teec Nos Pos, this one by noted Navajo artisan Lilly Bitsuie.

Lot 220 (below) dates back to the 1870s, a time when the Navajo still roamed the plains. This Navajo womens dress half in finely spun bayeta, indigo and natural brown center is a piece drenched in the rich history of its people.

Look now at full catalogs for John Moran Auctioneers’ HQ American West sale, and Leslie Hindman Auctioneers Arts of the American West sale.