A reader who knows about my growing interest in textile arts recently sent me a link to one of the coolest websites I’ve seen in a while. Curator’s Eye is an online trading place for buyers and sellers of fine art, antiquities, and historical objects. On the site, you’ll find things such as old maps and manuscripts; nautical related art; things from ancient Rome and Egypt; and all sorts of stuff from the American West.
Naturally, my favorite things are the ones related to textiles. There are some amazing examples of Asian garments, such as this wonderfully embroidered jacket worn by members of the Kauer people in Indonesia, and this Javanese batik headcloth from the 19th century. There are also some great examples of pre-Columbian and folk art, as well as a knockout gallery for Central Asian and Middle Eastern rugs.
Not to missed is the gallery for Native American weavings, which is what prompted our reader Jay to send me this link. He knows I’ve been shopping for a Navajo blanket or rug, and figured I could use this site to help develop my own personal of taste. Since I’m new to this field, I’ve been taking the time to browse around – so I can figure out which styles I really like before I drop some cold hard cash on something. Curator’s Eye certainly has some incredibly beautiful pieces. What I wouldn’t do to have this thing hanging on my living room wall.
(Big thanks to Jay B. for the link!)