The Navajos began weaving with wool during the 17th century, when sheep were introduced to the New Mexico-Arizona region by the Spanish.  Navajo women soon came to be regarded as the premier weavers in this region.

The elaborate designs in this blanket are inspired by those of Saltillo-style textiles. Navajo weavers began experimenting with Saltillo designs in the second half of the 19th century. Before then, most Navajo blankets displayed designs of narrow stripes or bands.