Blanket c. 1890s

This blanket was woven by a Navajo (Diné) artist. The blanket captivates with its bold, geometric patterns, primarily diamonds, a shape that has echoed through cultures across millennia. The diamond motif, prominent here, is not merely decorative. Its roots trace back to ancient symbols of the eye, representing vigilance, awareness, and the all-seeing power of deities, echoing in the protective eyes painted on ancient ships to ward off evil. Notice how the diamonds are not uniform but shift in color and size, creating a vibrant, pulsating rhythm. This dynamic quality speaks to the ever-changing nature of existence, mirroring the cycles of life and renewal found in many indigenous cosmologies. Consider, too, the deep-seated human need to impose order on chaos, a psychological impulse that drives us to find patterns and meaning in the world around us. The diamond, with its precise angles and repeating form, offers a sense of stability and control, yet the variations within each diamond hint at the unpredictable forces that shape our lives. The cyclical progression of this symbol is undeniable. It resurfaces, evolves, and takes on new meanings in different historical contexts.