Serapes (the Spanish term for blanket) are a prominent form of Navajo weaving. In the early nineteenth century, they became seen as garments of prestige among a range of Southwest residents, as well as a high-value trade item. Vibrantly colored and vividly patterned, these so-called wearing blankets build on long-established design themes. The horizontal lines and diamond shapes of this classic example—referred to by some as a rare “radio-wave” pattern—are characteristic of Southwest Native American design, reflecting varied weaving traditions and artistic exchange among Native and Hispanic communities.