Weavings

The Denver Art Museum has just re-opened after a 3 year renovation so a friend invited me to join her to hear lectures from the curators about their approaches to re-configuring the galleries and collections.  

Because my friend attended Pratt and designed costumes and clothing, we immediately headed to the sixth floor to view the woman's fashion historical collection.  As I viewed these pieces, it reminded me of how tiny women were in the 19th century.  And how elaborate their clothing.  But this exhibit focused on designer's dresses and gowns (and a few pant suits thrown in) so not regular clothing for the middle or lower class.

I was more interested to see the textiles that were displayed from other cultures.  They were all displayed behind tinted glass in darkened rooms.  While I understand that light is not a friend of weavings and tapestries, it made it really hard to  photograph or see the fine details.

Unfortunately, almost 100% of these old weavings were not attributed to a specific artist.  Not surprising since women's work — especially then — was not valued.  Although in fairness, men also made weavings and their names were also not saved.

I loved this one because not only is it a fragment (meaning the edges themselves were interesting) but part of the pattern reminded me of a menorah.  I can't help wondering what this artist was trying to say.  I wish I knew more.