Style: Red Mesa
Like much of history, the transitional periods that rose throughout the Navajo weaving culture led to exciting changes. Colors and styles changed with available wool, saddle blankets became wearing blankets, and later became traditional Navajo rugs. That same transition affected the Teec Nos Pos style in the late 1800s as the class style of Navajo chief blanket weavings gave way to the bold expressions and Eye Dazzling style of the Red Mesa. The Red Mesa designed blankets were the only ones that moved forward into the rug period to become a regional style, all other blanket styles faded away.
History of Red Mesa Rugs
Between the years of 1860 and 1910, the introduction of commercials dyes and yarns began to rapidly change the color palette of standard Navajo weavings. In fact, it was during this period where the standard functionality of fabrics began to change rather dramatically. Fewer people were wearing the Navajo blankets after the 1880s and instead they were sought after for eye-catching home décor. And thus, Red Mesa rugs with their exotic colors and patterns inspired by the Hispanic weavings began to filter their way onto floors, walls and even furniture.
Dazzling Contrasts and Effects
The Red Mesa rug style is considered a form of Teec Nos Pos, but also maintains the rather poignant eyedazzler effects due to the contrasting light and dark colors, vertical chevrons and radiating diamonds. Red Mesa rugs also feature a border that effortlessly blends in to the outwardly radiating pattern for a distinct visual look.
True Artistry and Passion
One of the most significant aspects of the Red Mesa rug style isn’t simply the colors or the patterns at all; it’s the patience, artistry and unique ability to control these aspects in a seemingly effortless process. While we can all agree, and understand, that no weaving is simple—nor is it easy; the weavers of this truly unique style simply have a flair for quality that’s unmatched.
