North American Auction Company
Live Auction

Montana Premier March 4th Collector Auction

Sat, Mar 4, 2023 11:00AM EST
Lot 368

Navajo / Pueblo Woven Ceremonial Sash Belt

Estimate: $150 - $300

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $5
$50 $10
$100 $25
$500 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,000 $250
$5,000 $500
$10,000 $1,000
$25,000 $2,500
$100,000 $5,000
For your consideration is this Navajo / Pueblo woven ceremonial sash belt. Both Navajo and Hopi make warp-faced belts, both styles with center panels patterned in warp-float. Evidence indicates that the Pueblos were making these before the arrival of the Spaniards as one figure in the Awatovi murals appears to be wearing a warp-faced belt. It is believed the Navajo were taught this weave after the arrival of the Spaniards. The belt is worn in Hopi and Navajo ceremonies. The belt is given to young men of the tribe from their godfathers when they are initiated. The fringe on the belt represents rain, an important necessity for tribes to grow food. This belt shows colors of white, red and green and a geometric design through the center of the belt. The fringe is long on either side of the belt showing colors of solid red, green and white as well as twisted colors of red and white and green and red. Overall the belt shows good condition with no signs of damage or wear. The belt measures 91" L x 3 1/2" W.