Antique Navajo 2nd Phase Chiefs Blanket - 62" x 57" c. 1870s

Second Phase Navajo Chief’s Blanket Circa 1870s– Indigo & Cochineal Dyes

A remarkable Second Phase Navajo Chief’s Blanket woven from hand-spun wool and featuring the iconic design elements that define one of the most celebrated forms of Navajo textile art. Distinguished by its bold horizontal bands and rectangular motifs, this weaving showcases the rich visual contrast of deep indigo blue and vibrant cochineal red dyes. The indigo was derived from imported natural indigo, while the brilliant red tones were produced using raveled cochineal-dyed yarns., a prized natural dye obtained from insects native to the Americas and highly valued in historic trade networks.  

During the 19th century, Navajo weavers often obtained valuable red yarns by unraveling imported woven textiles dyed with cochineal, a highly prized natural dye produced from insects native to the Americas. These raveled cochineal yarns provided rich, saturated reds that contrasted beautifully with the deep blue tones created from imported indigo dye. 

Second Phase Chief’s Blankets were woven during the mid-to-late 19th century and were esteemed throughout the Southwest as symbols of wealth, status, and cultural prestige. The combination of finely hand-spun wool, masterful weaving techniques, and rare natural dyes reflects the artistry and sophistication of Navajo weavers during this important period. Today, these blankets are among the most sought-after and collectible Native American textiles, prized for their historical significance, exceptional craftsmanship, and timeless design