The early peoples of the
Southwest whose artisans worked the various materials
available into reflections of their life ways
are responsible for some of the most enduring
expressions in the history of art.
Pottery, for preparing
and storing food and water and for propitiating
the source of life were painted with wonderful
abstract and floral designs. The design and weaving
of blankets was brought to a high art form with
the introduction by the Spanish, of sheep to the
Pueblo and Navajo peoples.
Stone was worked into
adornments of earrings, necklaces and bracelets.
The art of making Silver adornment being introduced
by the Mexican smiths became not only an expression
of personal prestige and wearable body art but
also a very viable economic force in their commerce
with Europeans. |
