Antique Navajo Homespun Eye-dazzler Blanket.19th Century Large 86x67" 14colors

Description

We bought this about 40 years ago from an antiques dealer friend in Florida before Neta got seriously in the antiques business.   I have seen some similar pieces, but none better.  It is very large (86x67").  It has at least 14 colors (my quick count).  Our American Indian collections have emphasized baskets and jewelry, and Cherokee masks, with other specialties more incidental. I am not much of a 'hands-on' expert on Navajo rugs, but I have read an enormous amount and owned dozens.  This (and the Two Grey Hills currently listed) has been the prize piece in our collections.   It is in good shape.  It has a few minor edge breaks and a couple of broken stitches, not unexpected for its age.  No insect damage.  It is hung on a 20 foot wall going up a staircase, and I am 20 years older, so I will need help taking it down but the other side is undoubtedly brighter, as it has been hanging in this spot for the 20 years we have lived in our present house.   I really do not intend to take it down until it sells because I like looking at it so much.
Among other unusual things about this rug is the way some of the sharp triangle rows are outlined by a thin contrasting color.  The woman who made this was a master.
Probably 1890-1900.
Note - 2 knowledgeable eBay Buyer inform me that this is a homespun rug, and not made from commercial yarn (mostly from Germantown Pennsylvania) as were many brightly colored rugs of this period.  Instead, this one is all native - native sheep with the wool sheared, carded, hand spun, hand dyed, and woven by the artist.    That would make this blanket even more special.  Thanks to the collectors who volunteered this information.  I appreciate all help.