Tent band late 19th-early 20th century

This tent band was likely made by a woman, using wool, cotton, and goat hair. Its creation would have been a laborious, time-consuming task. The band's material properties dictate its form. The wool and goat hair provide warmth, durability and flexibility, all essential for a nomadic lifestyle. The weaving process itself, likely done on a ground loom, imparts a structure that is both strong and pliant. The red and black dyes used would have been derived from local plants, or perhaps traded, and speak to the close relationship between the maker and her environment. Tent bands like this were integral to nomadic life, holding up the structure of the home and serving as a visual expression of cultural identity. The intricate geometric patterns and the deep red hue are not merely decorative. They encode meaning, reflecting the weaver's skill, knowledge, and social standing. Looking closely at this band, we realize the significance of material and making. What might first appear as simple decoration, becomes a testament to the artistry and resilience of nomadic cultures, challenging our assumptions about art and craft.