History and Facts of the Zapotec Rug

To fully appreciate the Zapotec Rug, one must learn a little about the making and history of the Zapotec peoples. They are an ancient civilization and believed they were born from the natural elements of their home land for example rocks and trees.

In the 1500’s the Spanish arrived bringing with them the first sheep from Europe and weaving techniques. The Spanish priests were to pass on their knowledge of the weave, and introducing the design of the loom to the Zapotec peoples.

The area of Teotitlan Del Valle in Oaxaca is where the world-renown rug making originated and still continues till today, making this a very special place.

Zapotec weaves are appreciated for their old craftsmanship, beautiful colours and one-of-a-kind designs and patterns. Not only are they beautiful rugs they also make beautiful wall hangings and tapestries. Use to add colour and design to any room. The Zapotec rug makes the perfect accessory to use in your home decor.

To create and weave these beautiful rugs is a very time consuming process. Not only for the artist who creates these beautiful forms of art, but for the entire family for each member has their own process to complete.

Before they begin they must clean and wash the wool. Next, they will need to dye the wool. Many are still using traditional and natural elements from the area to dye their wool. However some weavers have started using synthetic dyes on their rugs. If you happen to pass by the home or workshop of a rug artist, you will probably see them dying the wool in large pots of rich coloured dyes, outside on an open fire.

Once the wool has been dyed it is hung out to dry, from there the wool is spun into yard. All these different procedures must be done before the weaving process begins. Making rugs is a very time consuming process for the rug creator and entire family. But a very rewarding one once the unique rug is complete.

Each rug is a unique masterpiece of the artist. The fact that no two rugs are the same is one of the reasons that make these beautiful Zapotec rugs so very popular. To own one of these rugs is to have a piece of the Southwest history in you very own home.

Zapotec rugs are ideal for American Indian art collectors that like original or one-of-a-kind pieces to add to their collection. If you are a lover of fine Native arts and crafts or simply want to own a beautiful piece of art in the form of a rug the Zapotec rug is a perfect addition to your home collection decor.

Once you have purchased your beautiful Zapotec rug, you may choose to use it as a classic floor rug or as a beautiful wall hanging or tapestry. Whichever way, you will truly appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship of your Zapotec rug for years to come.

Add a piece of history and beautiful unique craftsmanship and colour to your home decor. Share the quality and beauty that is characteristic of the Zapotec rug.