They can be used for many years. Because of their delicate construction, it is best to wash them by hand and not by the washing machine. The vibrant colors found in Navajo rugs are mainly naturally colored or colored with vegetable dyes. These colors will not fade and last for longer than you might expect. They can last for many decades if they are well maintained by being properly cleaned and kept in sufficient sunlight. There are actually four types of Navajo rugs that are very popular around the globe. These are Ganado and Two Grey Hills. The differences in design make these categories. The Ganado and Klagetoh are simpler than the others.
The most common types of Yei and Yeibechai rugs feature multiple figures oriented parallel with the weft threads so that the rug appears wider than long when the figures are upright. Two distinct styles emerged in the 1920s. Those made in the area of Shiprock, New Mexico tend to have light colored backgrounds with no border, and often use brightly colored commercial yarns. Yeis and Yeibechais made in the central part of the reservation (northeastern Arizona) tend to have dark backgrounds with simple borders. They are more likely to incorporate natural wool colors and more subdued chemical shades. Yeis continue to be very popular with collectors and are now being made in nearly all parts of the reservation.
Yeis (yays) are the Holy People (supernatural) who cancommunicate between the Navajo people and their gods. They are usually shown face-frontand are tall, slender figures carrying rattles, cornstalks, etc. There are someelements of some sandpaintings but these rugs are not used in ceremonies. Any combination and amount of colors may be used. They can be commerciallyor vegetal dyed and contain different numbers of Yei figures. Sometimes thesefigures are surrounded by the guardian rainbow Yei symbol.
The key thing to remember is that if you are uncomfortable or unsure whether a rug you are considering is an authentic Navajo rug, do not buy it. Instead, work with a reputable dealer you can trust to ensure that you are looking at an authentic Navajo rug. This video is essential viewing for both beginning and seasoned collectors alike and will help you understand how to differentiate between the two types of authentic Navajo weavings. It is important that you can tell the difference between a Navajo rug or a Navajo blanket because the price of the textile depends on the kind of weaving it is.
I only hope that the buyer isn't inspired by my childhood antics and puts the Navajo blanket inside a temperature controlled glass case rather than snuggling in their car. It is not possible to tell Native American history in schoolbooks. Instead, it can be told through Native American art. The textiles are the most visible pieces of this cultural heritage. These blankets from the Navajo chief are a testament to the Native American community, their spirituality and struggle for survival. Also known as a "serape", this blanket was created during the tribe's internment at eastern New Mexico in 1865. This piece is stunning for its rich red color and border. Red was very difficult to find back then, especially for Native Americans. This was solved by the Native Americans who would unravel machine-made rugs and then re-weave thread to create their own designs. This design is however rare. It shows the increasing intrusion of outsiders not only on the Navajo cultural, but also their art. Notice the bordering at the four corners of the blanket. These borders were popular at the time and were inspired by the exotic Oriental rugs.
Any handmade imitation Navajo rug made in the United States would probably be woven with the firm intentions of deceiving the buyer. There would hardly be any other reason for a American non-Indian to put in the time and effort required to weave a convincing fake. Because of the economics and the work required, there are very few US made fake Navajo rugs.
Dr. J. Mark Sublette discusses Navajo rugs in the 1920s and today, with a history and different dyes. Also, regional and trading post styles, such as Navajo Crystals, Wide Ruins and Burntwater are discussed.