Q: My dad got this rug (we think it is Navajo) in the 1960s. It’s been used only as a wall hanging. Any info on origin and age?
A: The reader adds that dimensions are 6-by-3.5 feet. We viewed the rug in an image that shows it decorating a wall. Imagine a beige wool hanging that includes five elongated geometric figures from top to bottom, plus a stylized plant border. Note: This basic description is for readers unfamiliar with the form.
Our reader IDs the figures as yeis. Again simplifying, we add that yeis are Native American symbols. They are geometric representations of varied natural phenomena or totems. Yeis are often seen in sand paintings and weavings. In very basic terms, the Navajo Yei spirit is a go-between for humans and the Great Spirit.
We asked Steve Begner, of Turkey Mountain Traders in Evergreen, Colorado, to check out the image. Begner specializes in antique American Indian art and jewelry. In this area antique is pre-1940, though later items can also have value depending on variables.
Stressing that the rug needs to be examined in person, he told us that it seems to be a wool Navajo Yei weaving probably made in the Shiprock region of northwestern New Mexico.
“Yeis are Navajo holy people and they are often depicted in a row as they are here,” he added. He thinks the rug was woven for sale and dates it circa 1940-1965.
It’s important to note that not all Navajo weavings were made for sale. In the 19th century, Begner told us, many wearing blankets were woven and used within the tribe. Others were traded to other tribes.
After the introduction of factory-made blankets (think Pendleton or Beaver States), Navajo weaving turned largely to rugs for the general public through traders.
He adds that in the early 20th century there was a taboo against depicting yeis or deities in permanent work. The prohibition lessened as designs became highly stylized and angular, as they are in the reader’s rug.
A look online reveals that contemporary Native American artists and artisans produce weavings that feature yei images: Some weavers are celebrated. Sold as works of art by galleries, contemporary yei rugs command up to $5,000 or more.
Smart collectors know that many collectors of Native American arts such as weavings, baskets or jewelry prefer older pieces because they consider them most authentic and desirable.
A caveat: When buying Native American arts of any kind especially the old, know your seller. This is an area where integrity is vital.
Again stressing that the reader’s rug must be seen for an accurate assessment, Begner said that if condition is good, retail value is $2,000-$3,500.
