Wall Hanging c. 1920

Editor: This "Wall Hanging" by Margarete Köhler features muted earth tones and intriguing geometric motifs. I’m curious about the symbolism behind the turtles and fish. What stories might this textile tell? Curator: Consider its historical context. Textiles like this often served as powerful tools for marginalized communities to express cultural identity and resistance. Could these animals represent specific clans or spiritual beliefs, perhaps even subtly challenging dominant narratives? Editor: So, it's not just decorative. It's potentially a form of coded communication? Curator: Precisely. By examining the symbols and their arrangement through an intersectional lens, we can unpack layered meanings related to power, heritage, and survival. What does its presence in the Harvard Art Museums say? Editor: It adds another layer. Thank you for helping me consider the broader implications.