Loom Model

Within many Native American tribes, traditional women’s roles often included the production of goods critical for survival. As a result, the majority of the artwork produced by Native American women has been preserved because of its display on these functional objects. The Navajo in particular were renowned for the intricate patterns they created through the process of weaving. Navajo women would use looms similar to this model to produce wool rugs, clothing, and blankets from sheep that had originally been brought to the New World by the Spanish. Navajo textiles were known cross culturally for their durability and waterproof qualities as well as their detailed geometric patterns that were, in part, inspired by Spanish and Hopi designs. In many cases, the status of a Navajo woman was a testament to the skill she displayed in her weaving. In addition to the social value of weaving, the products women of the tribe produced also had a certain degree of monetary value. Outside demand for Navajo textiles brought additional revenue into their communities, which was increasingly helpful at times when the cultural existence of their people was put under duress.