Len Wood’s Indian Territory. Rare Navajo Three-Ply Germantown Full-size Shoulder Blanket. Pre-1875 (3-ply Germantown Trade Yarn period which predates the more common 4-ply Germantown period which began in late 1870s). In Classic Period designs. Both sides are quite even in color density with minimal fading on one side. Very fine Germantown shoulder blanket with late-classic stepped diamond motif. Germantown yarn was first introduced to the Navajo in rare 3-ply form. Although we have handled many Germantown yarn blankets over the years this is the first and only 3-ply we have had and it shares the Classic Period weaving motifs that were being woven in homespun wool and raveled yarns during this era. With beautiful change in color in field with light red areas woven against dark red field much like the sedimentary rock of the desert southwest. Some selvage repair and some light color run in a small area as shown in photos, but overall this is in superior condition, especially for weavings of this era. The two lighter bands of red are Intentional bands of salmon light red 3 ply Germantown trade yarn interspersed in several areas with the same darker red Germantown trade yarn running throughout the lighter in several spots as I have shown in the attached photos. I have seen this intentional interplay of lighter and darker shades of the same color used before in early Navajo weavings , Classic blankets, Transitionals, both homespun and Germantown trade yarn examples, as well as early to mid 20th c Navajo Ganados, and whether it was done to indicate the color changes in and within the multi hued sedimentary rock formations of the southwest is my current “best guess” as to the weaver intention in this textile as well as in other textiles sharing the same lighter and darker shades technique. Obviously the weaver did not “need” to stop and start and change the dark wool to light and back again, it was a deliberate effort that required additional work and additional time so she was trying to produce a specific effect. Artistically the textile displays more “visual energy”, is less “flat” and has more life and interplay with the color variations as well and this appears to be an important factor in the earlier Navajo textiles before they became more influenced by modern/commercial tastes and sensibilities. Notes from Len Wood’s Indian Territory Gallery. Shown here is an excellent example of a blanket in great condition. Please view photographs attached in listing for a visual representation of this item’s condition. Satisfaction and Authenticity is Guaranteed with every order that you place with us. We are a family owned and operated Antique Indian Art Gallery, now celebrating our 50th anniversary. Additional photos are available upon request – Please let us know how we can help you! The item “Very RARE 3-PLY Large 72×52 Navajo Germantown Shoulder Blanket / Serape c1870s” is in sale since Thursday, March 21, 2019. This item is in the category “Collectibles\Cultures & Ethnicities\Native American\ US\1800-1934\Rugs & Textiles (Navajo)”. The seller is “indian_territory” and is located in Aliso Viejo, California. This item can be shipped to United States.

• Handmade: Yes
• Country/Region of Manufacture: United States
• Provenance: 3 ply Germantiwn Yarn, Gallery COA Document
• Origin: Navajo Reservation, Arizona/New Mexico, USA
• Tribal Affiliation: Navajo