Zapotec
Rugs from Oaxaca
tapetes imported from Oaxaca,
Mexico
Zapotec
design - hand woven with natural dyes
From Teotitlan del Valle
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for full view
Click on full view (when opened) for price info
Lars Theoderik Design Philosophy
Rug Selection
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The rugs I
have selected for this collection were chosen for their bold expression
either of strong and simple geometric or stylized zoomorphic figures taken
from ancient Meso American designs, or for an unusual combination of intense
natural colors with a traditional Zapotec pattern. The rugs with "diamond"
patterns are the most commonly found, but the colors are never the same.
While this pattern is traditional, the specific application of color makes
each rug unique. I selected color combinations that I found particularly
unusual or compelling that appealed to my appreciation of intense expression.
Sometimes the colors can be vibrant and exciting, such as in the combinations
with bright blue and orange, and at other times, the colors can be more
subtle and subdued, as in the darker rugs with rust, dark green, and dark
(almost tan) chartreuse. All of the colors recall their natural, earth
sources, and create a feeling of warmth and harmony that is surprising
in its contrasts. I think the particular patterns and proportions of color
are what allow this unusual transformation of vibrancy to take place.
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The
zoomorphic patterns from ancient MesoAmerica are particularly appealing
to me for their simplicity of statement. The restraint in use of color,
to the point of pure black and white in some, creates a lasting imprint
on the mind. These patterns are relatively rare and difficult to find. I
found only one woman who makes them on a regular basis, although a few other
weavers occasionally make some of the serpent patterns and other designs.
Because patterns must be specially made for these designs and because the
quantity made is so low, the weavers must charge more for these unusual
designs. However, the impact made by these weavings is so great that the
price is well worth it. They lend themselves more to wall hangings, as they
can best be viewed from that angle, although the ones with single or double
symmetry also make nice accent rugs for small areas, such as bedrooms and
intimate seating areas. They are definite attention getters!
All rugs are 100% wool and dyes are made from natural vegetable and organic sources, including cochineal for the intense reds.
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© 2002 Lars Theoderik