Orange and Brown Zapotec Style Hand Woven Area Rug (2.5x5), "Zapotec Cross"

Update (July, 2019)

“We are a numerous family that has been dedicated to weaving wool tapestries for many years; each one of us learned from our parents.

“In these years working hand-in-hand with NOVICA, we have seen how greatly our sales have grown. This has allowed us to create more designs featuring pre-Hispanic grecas (spirals) in our tapestries.

“We continue working with the same techniques using natural dyes. We have been able to purchase more looms for the busy seasons, and give work to people that want to learn and maintain this tradition.

“As members of a family, each one of us has their special touch and designs. One of my brothers won a state award for one of his designs.

“We really like working with NOVICA, implementing new technologies that help us grow as we continue making what we like the most. But, this also allows us to be united as a family and continue creating beautiful designs, preserving a beautiful tradition.”

Original Artisan Story

"We're from a small Zapotec town in Oaxaca where almost everyone is involved in raising sheep, processing and dying the fleece, or weaving wool rugs and other textiles.

"From the time we were children, our parents and grandparents patiently taught us how to card, spin and weave the wool on traditional looms, and to derive dyes from the plants and flowers around us.

"At the same time, they taught us values such as responsibility, commitment and love for our work. This is our legacy.

"Our first weavings used our town's most traditional designs. As time went by, we were able to create more detailed motifs. We learned to recognize and gather the plants and materials for our organic dyes, such as leaves, tree bark and grasses, indigo and cochineal.

"One of the things we enjoy in my family is innovation. We like to try things that are new, but all the while preserving the essence of Zapotec textile arts.

"Our main inspiration comes from the family, and the constant struggle to maintain the quality of our work.

"Today, our goal is to continue sharing our knowledge and our love for weaving. We hope you like our work."