Crystal Trading Post Rug with Whirling Logs [R]

The central elongated diamond would normally be the focal point of this rug but the inner border of lines and blocks superimposed on the white background takes command.  It is so architectural and reminiscent of something from the mind of Frank Lloyd Wright that one must wonder where the Navajo weaver got the idea for the design.  J. B. Moore had departed the trading post in 1911 and this rug dates from circa 1920-1925, so it is not one he published in his catalogs but it could be a take-off from designs in plate VII of his 1903 catalog. If so, the weaver expanded the idea into something very dramatic and of her own creation. 

When Moore left the post, his assistant J. A. Molohon continued the business for many years along the lines that Moore had done. It is quite possible that he showed designs to some of the weavers as suggestions for patterns of rugs, designs that he wanted to introduce during his tenure as credit for his independence from Moore.

The inner part of the rug, in addition to the elongated diamond, features four whirling log elements which must be interpreted and appreciated for what they meant to the Navajo in the 1920s and not for what they became in the time of World War II.  Pueblo potters, Apache basket makers, Navajo jewelers and rug weavers all used that symbol from the traditions of their people.

For the Navajo, the whirling log pattern had its beginning in a ceremonial sandpainting from the Night Chant.  In the Diné language, it is called that which revolves and it designates direction and motion.  The symbol, having a religious meaning, was not used in textiles until traders such as Moore encouraged the weavers to do so.  Also, at that time, the Navajo were phasing out blanket weaving for their own use and buying Pendleton blankets at the trading post, so use of the symbol would not interfere with their beliefs since they were not associated with wearing anything with the symbol.

Condition: recently cleaned and repaired and ready for use. Some minor staining

Recommended Reading: The Swastika Symbol in Navajo Textiles by Dennis J. Aigner

Provenance: unknown

Whirling Log Symbol: the swastika - or "svastika" from the ancient Sanskrit language - is one of our most universal and positive symbols. Literally it means "auspicious mark", but in various cultures it has signified well-being, highest perfection, happiness, pleasure or good luck.