Skip to content

Blog

RSS
  • Native American Totems
    May 14, 2018 Sam Kennedy

    Native American Totems

    Totem poles are a Northwest art form most commonly carved of Western red cedar by the indigenous tribes of the Pacific Northwest coast. The word “totem” is derived from the Algonquian word Odoodem, meaning “kinship group.” The carvings symbolize ancestors,...

    Read now
  • Germantown Weavings
    April 13, 2018 Sam Kennedy

    Germantown Weavings

    Natural dyes and hand-spun wool were used by Navajo weavers until the 1870s.  At that time, aniline dyes were introduced, replacing the natural dyes.  As commercial traders began the serious marketing of the Navajo weavings both in California and the...

    Read now
  • What is Vintage Tramp Art?
    June 29, 2017 Seth Hamman

    What is Vintage Tramp Art?

    Tramp Art was a movement in the United States and Europe between the 1880's and the 1920's. Pieces were primarily made from discarded cigar boxes and apple crates, which were notched and layered to create boxes, picture frames, crucifixes, or...

    Read now
  • Navajo Weaver with Loom
    June 29, 2017 Seth Hamman

    History of Navajo Weavings?

    Navajo weavings were originally made for use as cloaks, dresses and saddle blankets.  Prior to the mid-19th century, the colors were primarily natural brown and white with the occasional addition of cochineal(red) and indigo, which were acquired through trade.  When...

    Read now