NORTH MEXICO, FIRST HALF 19TH CENTURY

Saltillo serapes are the result of a fushion of Native American and Spanish textile traditions. Woven on narrow European looms in two joined parts, these wonderfully flamboyant flat weaves are iconic Mexican textiles that acquired a nationalist flavour when Mexico gained independence from Spain in 1821. Named after the town in the Mexican state of Coahuila where many of them were made, Saltillos were designed to be multi-functional and became associated with Mexican horse culture. Horsemen used them as clothing during the day, draping them like shawls around them, and at night they were used as blankets, often seen rolled up and placed behind a saddle. The importance and varied use of these textiles in everyday life means that frequently Saltillos are found with damage or losses, the present example is in remarkably good condition. For closely related examples from the Alberto Ulrich Collection and a detailed discussion of the history and technical aspects of Saltillo weaving, see Kathrin Colburn's article 'The Saltillo Serape, History and Conservation', Hali 79, February/March 1995, pp.80-87.