Size: 42x105cm; 16.5x41in
Weaver: Belén Bautista
Price: $245USD
Materials and methods: criollo sheep wool dyed with natural dyes: Beè (Dactylopius coccus Costa, cochineal). Handwoven on a Zapotec style loom of the 16th century adapted from European styles. Woven using a 7 threads per inch reed and wool rayon blend for warp.
Design, patterns and symbols.
This rug depicts the seeds of matriarchy that come from the Pleiads, the many sister seeds that make the base of our agricultural and food system: the milpa. Typically we talk about the three sister seeds that from the base structure of the milpa agroecological food system but there is more to that, other seeds that one can plant are chia seeds, amaranth, chillies, cempasuchitl, and agave plants among other plantcestors. Each seed brings a gift to the milpa ecosystem and works together with the other plants to create a synergy for optimal growth and nutrition. I have come to realize that these seeds are being kept by the "ladies of the market" known as the Pleiades in the western world. Markets, afterall, are the heart of our communities were we gather to exchange the bounty and blessings that our careful tending of the land provides; it is where we meet and greet each other, find out how we are and build community; markets are sacred spaces not transactional empty rooms.
Customize fringes.
Twisted: traditional zapotec look, sturdy.
Bundled: boho look; secured and soft.
Tucked in: secured and tidy. Looks neat for hanging and easy vacuuming on the floor. (Allow two days for processing).