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Historic Navajo weaving

Dress Panel

Woven by Biil

Late Classic Navajo Dress Panel : Biil : Historic : PC 127 : 32" x 50" : (2'8" x 4'2")

$ 10,500
One of a kind. Insured shipping arranged by the gallery.
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Style
Dress Panel
Weaver
Biil
Size
32" x 50"
Item number
PC 127
About this weaving

Step into history with this stunning Late Classic Navajo dress panel—a 32" x 50" textile treasure from the Hubbell Era that's basically wearable art. This single Biil panel, woven from hand-spun indigo blue and aniline red 4-ply yarn.  Background natural black and brown home spun native wool.  Represents a crucial piece of Navajo women's heritage. The Biil—sometimes called a "rug dress"—was the go-to garment for Navajo women before the Long Walk, fastened at the shoulders with arm and head slits and cinched at the waist for a surprisingly practical design. This panel showcases the weaver's skill in creating textiles that were simultaneously functional and beautiful. Whether displayed as wall art or appreciated as a historical artifact, this piece celebrates Navajo women's creativity, resilience, and the everyday elegance of traditional dress. A remarkable connection to pre-removal Navajo culture and identity.





Style Wearables: Manta, Serape, Child
Weaver unknown
Circa 1890-1900
Size 32" x 50" (2'8" x 4'2")
Item #  PC 127
Learn more about wearable weavings

Contact us for more information at info@navajorug.com. or 520-455-5020 -- We will be glad to help you!

Nizhoni Ranch Gallery donates a portion of each sale to the Forever Navajo Foundation.  Forever Navajo's primary purpose is to preserve the fine art of Navajo weaving.

Shipping and viewing

Fully insured shipping, or see it in person at the gallery in Sonoita by appointment. Call 520-455-5020.

Learn about Navajo weaving

New to Navajo weaving? The gallery's journal explains the regional styles, Churro wool, and how to care for and hang a rug. Read the articles or watch the videos.

A portion of this sale goes to the Forever Navajo Foundation, which preserves the fine art of Navajo weaving.