Manta-dress

Among the Hopi, where men are the weavers and this superb textile was created, the manta-dress was the daily utilitarian garment of women until the early 1900s. Sewn up one side and part of the top and secured at the waist by a woven sash, the weaving was worn as a wraparound dress; it was also used by both sexes as a shoulder blanket. The dark, exquisitely modulated coloration is the most distinguishing characteristic of these weavings. The striking relationship of natural browns and indigo blue is combined with a subtle, richly textured surface and simple composition to form a textile of remarkable beauty. This weaving is further elaborated by four bands, each comprised of four raised lines known to the Hopi as "hills and vales."