This mid-20th-century Navajo rug stands out for its striking monochrome palette and highly unusual central medallion. Elongated and narrow, the medallion features a simple yet rhythmic striped pattern that draws the eye inward. Flanking it on either side are stylized bird motifs—abstract and geometric, yet unmistakably avian—adding movement and narrative to the design. A bold zigzag border frames the entire composition, reinforcing the visual energy while anchoring the central forms. Woven entirely in varying shades of black, white, and gray, the rug relies on contrast and composition rather than color to make its impact. The neutral palette gives it a modern sensibility, while the motifs remain rooted in Navajo tradition. Woven by a Navajo artist using hand-dyed wool and a vertical loom, this piece bridges utility and artistry, offering a rare and elegant example of mid-century Indigenous textile work that would complement both contemporary and traditional interiors.
