Bessie Manygoats, 1905?-1953
by Bessie Manygoats, 1905?-1953
This rug by Legendary Master Weaver Bessie Manygoats measures 49" x 69", natural hand-spun yarn, excellent condition with minor surface "nicks", c. 1930.
Bessie was one of the best if not the best artist that wove Navajo rugs in the 20th century. Her designs are clearly derivative of the Bear Clan weavers, highlighted by Master Weavers Mrs. Policeboy and Mary Yanabah Curley. Bessie basically develops the designs of Mary Yanabah Curley who had developed the designs of her mother, Mrs. Policeboy.
This rug features a 3 column layout with the center column displaying two premiere elements of Bessie Manygoats. Both of these elements can be traced to Bear Clan weavers. “The Master Weavers” shows the rugs by Policeboy and Curley that illustrate the evolution of the element that appears top and bottom of the center column. The element in the center of the center column is used earlier by Mrs. Policeboy’s daughter, Master Weaver Policegirl. In both cases Bessie refines the elements to greater artistic excellence. The center element with the diamond bordered in crosses is masterfully executed with the negative space displaying well articulated crosses.
The border is textbook Bessie and the Waterbug variants used in all 3 center diamonds are her designs. It is always a thrill to see and acquire a textile by this singular Navajo artist!