Description:

Northern New Mexico. Ca. 19th century. A classic woven wool serape with a vertical format of the Navajo and Rio Grande serape, in colors of indigo blue, deep brown and white in alternating bands. Short string fringe end borders. Some scattered native repairs woven into the serape in a light gray color wool. A good early example. According to AI: The Rio Grande serape is a distinctive textile tradition from Northern New Mexico and Southern Colorado, characterized by several key historical and aesthetic features: Design Influence: They were heavily inspired by Saltillo serapes from Northern Mexico. Materials & Construction: Historically woven on European-style treadle looms using wool. Early versions were simple striped blankets, but mid 19th century designs became more complex with serrated geometric patterns and diamond motifs. Colors: Traditional pieces used natural dyes, most notably indigo blue and madder red. By the late 19th century, the introduction of vibrant aniline dyes led to an "explosive blossoming" of color before the tradition's decline. Size: 76"L. x 40"W.

Provenance: Private NJ. collection. Acquired at Santa Fe market, 25 years ago.

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#70391

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February 26, 2026 7:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
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$750 $1,499 $50
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$3,000 $7,499 $250
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