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Poncho serape
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For Navajo weavers, the concept of hózhó describes a dynamic of order, beauty, balance, and harmony that exists in a cosmos that is constantly in motion. This concept guides the Navajo way of life within a cultural framework that stresses individual autonomy as a means of creating a universal harmony within one’s community (D’Alessandro 2018, 53). This Classic Period (1800–1864) poncho serape illustrates this worldview. The work of an expert weaver, it is designed in bands showcasing numerous patterns. The control of the varied array of design motifs is noteworthy, as is the consistent handling throughout the weaving. However, the weaver intentionally breaks away from the symmetry by placing two dark blue bands together in the top row of zigzag motifs. This disrupts the repetitive pattern of alternating white and dark blue bands. In what would be an almost symmetrical layout, this small alteration adds a dynamism that is not immediately recognized. In the words of Harry Walters, Navajo elder and former director of Diné College Museum, “the illusion of symmetry prevails” (Willink and Zolbrod 1996, 26). Gary Witherspoon explains, “In Navajo culture, movement, repetition, balance and harmony, and controlled or restrained emotion and force are dominant themes” (Witherspoon 1977, 169). Hózhó, then, is neither perfect nor static symmetry. It is a dynamic symmetry that combines both delicacy and boldness, creating contrasts and tensions of elements that are ultimately harmonized by the overall scheme (Hatcher and Wallace 1974, 213). Thus, Navajo weavers strive for balance in their work yet avoid symmetry. jkd
- Title
- Poncho serape
- Date
- 1840-1860
- Object Type
- Costume
- Medium
- Wool; weft-faced plain weave, interlocked tapestry weave
- Dimensions
- 78 x 51 in., (198.1 x 129.5 cm,)
- Credit Line
- Gift of the Thomas W. Weisel Family Collection
- Accession Number
- 2016.14.16