Pair of Navajo Dolls in Trade Blankets – Wood & Cloth Construction, 12" & 11"

This evocative pair of vintage Navajo dolls reflects the traditional styling and artisan craftsmanship characteristic of mid-20th-century Southwestern Native folk art. Each figure is thoughtfully hand-constructed with wood legs, cloth bodies, and wrapped in richly colored wool trade-style blankets—evoking the patterns and textures associated with early Navajo textile tradition.

The taller doll features a painted face, braided hair, and cradles a baby on her back, wrapped together in a green-and-blue patterned blanket. She wears striped layered fabric garments underneath and stands in hand-painted moccasin-like shoes. The second figure is slightly smaller, with long black hair styled in braids and dressed in an ochre-orange and black blanket, with floral-print fabric peeking beneath. Both dolls stand unsupported, their forms subtly shaped under the blankets.

Although these dolls may evoke comparisons to Skookum dolls, they differ significantly in material, construction, and origin. Unlike Skookums—mass-produced and non-Native in origin—these pieces exhibit the handmade authenticity and cultural nuance associated with Navajo artisan work.

Condition:

Good vintage condition with age-appropriate wear. Minor pilling and some fraying to blanket edges. Hair shows some wear, and there is light paint loss to the feet of the taller doll. Structurally sound and visually expressive throughout.

Dimensions:

• Taller doll (with child): 12 x 5 x 2.5 inches

• Smaller doll: 11 x 4 x 2.5 inches