Navajo Germantown Sampler on a Loom [SOLD]

Loom samplers were common tourist commodities in the late 19^th century. They were generally woven in eye-dazzling patterns with commercial aniline-dyed yarns. The yarns and the textiles made from them became known as Germantowns, from the name of the town in Pennsylvania where some of the yarns had been manufactured. They were primarily sold by the Fred Harvey Company at its outlets on the Santa Fe railroad. The intent was to illustrate the manner in which Navajo rugs were woven on an upright loom.

These Germantown loom samplers have become very collectible, especially ones in good condition such as this one.

Condition: This sampler is in very good condition.

Provenance: From a Santa Fe collector of textiles

Recommended Reading: Navajo Pictorial Weaving, 1880-1950 by Tyrone Campbell