Mexican Blankets, Rugs & Textiles

Mexican blankets, rugs, and textiles have a history that is as rich and vibrant as the many colors and patterns that they encompass. Mexican blankets, commonly known as "serapes," are said to date back to the days of the Aztecs when they were woven as gift offerings to the gods. The bright palette of these blankets and textiles created from the natural dyes of indigenous fruits and berries were said to ward off evil spirits.

Today, the bright colors that comprise Mexican blankets and rugs serve as a symbol for the cultural zest and vitality that define the people of this diverse nation. Textiles continue to be one of Mexico's most beloved exports, owing to their natural beauty, versatility and functionality.

Serapes are often woven from heavy wool, making them an ideal garment in cold weather. Additionally, the kaleidoscopic array of colors which are often incorporated into a single rug, blanket, or textile ensures that they will compliment the existing décor and color scheme of virtually any room in which they are placed.

Quick Facts

• Serapes from the highland regions of Mexico are typically two-tone combinations of black, grey, tan, or brown depending on the natural coloration of the sheep varieties from which artisans gather the wool
• Textiles from the state of Coahuila in northeastern Mexico, by contrast, generally exhibit a rainbow of colors over a dark base
• Mexican blankets, rugs, and textiles range in price from tens or hundreds of dollars for contemporary items to many thousands for rare and antique examples