In Ganado, Arizona, a Diné (Navajo) shepherd and weaver named Nikyle Begay was inspired by the legacy of master weaver Julia Bah Joe and her family. Among Joe’s many intricate textiles, one stood out above the rest: a massive 250-pound rug called “Diyogí Tsoh” (“The Big Rug”). This masterpiece, previously known as the “Hubbell-Joe Rug,” is now displayed at the Affeldt Mion Museum (AMM) with its original Diné name.
Crafted in 1937, Diyogí Tsoh was once hailed as the world’s largest Navajo rug. It traveled to various venues across the country, captivating audiences with its vibrant patterns inspired by the night sky, Ancestral Puebloan pottery, and regional wildlife. When Begay first laid eyes on the rug at the AMM, he was left speechless, imagining the labor and emotion that went into creating such a magnificent piece.
Over the years, the rug’s name evolved to reflect its association with Lorenzo Hubbell Jr., who commissioned its creation. However, after being surpassed in size in 1977, the rug lost its original identity. Following a year of advocacy and consultations with Joe’s family, the AMM decided to restore the rug to its rightful name, Diyogí Tsoh, honoring its cultural heritage and the Diné community.
Produced during a challenging period marked by government policies like land allotments and livestock reduction, Diyogí Tsoh was a collaborative effort involving Joe, her daughter Lillie Hill, and other family members and weavers from the Red House Clan. Despite changing ownership over the years, the rug’s remarkable preservation and cultural significance have endured.
The decision to rename the rug was a result of community collaboration and respect for its origins. By recognizing Diyogí Tsoh by its Diné name, the AMM pays tribute to the craftsmanship and storytelling of Navajo women weavers. The rug’s rich history and intricate designs continue to captivate viewers, showcasing the enduring legacy of Julia Bah Joe and her family.
