For a century or so, the Navahos have enjoyed the critical acclaim of people the world over for their expert weaving abilities. Their weavings are prized as highly collectible and are widely sought. However, there are a group of indigenous people who also have a long tradition of weaving as art form: The Zapotec indians.

The Zapotec Indians of Oaxaca, Mexico are expert craftsmen in the field of weaving, a tradition that goes back two thousand years. Their designs, styles, and techniques can be seen throughout Mexico. Located high in the Sierra Madre mountain range, a ten hour drive south of Mexico City, the isolated villages of the Zapotecs are steeped in the rich mysteries of their culture. Life hasn't changed much here in the past century, Tradition is more than a matter of mere ritual--its a way of life. They are one of the last cultures in the world to complete the entire weaving process without the benefits of automation or modern science.  Most of the dyes are all natural, and derived from plants and minerals native to Oaxaca. The ancient village of Teotitlan del Valle serves as the heart and sole of this weaving tradition.Local historians claim that it was the first Zapotec settlement in the Oaxacan Valley.This would date the formative stage of their civilization sometime about the birth of Christ. Throughout their history, the Zapotecs have been renowned as weavers and Cochineal dye merchants. With cotton as their main fiber source, they had a virtual monopoly on the clothing trade in Mesoamerica. It is believed that the rug, or serape, that we know today evolved from a poncho style tunic worn by nearly all men in pre-Colombian times. The Spanish invasion and their introduction of the sheep into the new world influenced one very significant change for the Zapotecs: Wool became the medium for their artistic expression. Explore the remarkable and artistic creations of some of our favorite village weavers - artists of reputation and skill!

are partners in offering high-quality native products from a select list of exceptional artists and craftsmen. By highlighting these examples of outstanding works, we hope to promote the appreciation  of the artist as well as the product. We believe these products reflect the creative art, the hard work, and the indigenous spirit of the men and women who dedicated their craft in making them.