Anasazi Sandals of Tseyi-Hatsosi Canyon, Arizona: Attributes and Cultural Context

Abstract

Twenty-four Anasazi sandals, from Tseyi-Hatsosi Canyon, northeastern Arizona, were analyzed using the Sibley and Jakes model (1989) for inferring cultural context from archaeological textiles. These sandals were analyzed for yarn structures, silhouettes, fabric constructions, colors, motifs, and tie systems. The sandals contain: yucca fiber Z-spun into plied, S-twist yarns; scalloped-toe and puckered heel silhouettes; twined fabric in complex geometric patterns; and toe-heel tie systems. Sibley and Jakes' model advanced understanding of Anasazi sandals beyond the basic function of sandals as footwear. Division of labor and prestige value are indicated by sandal complexity and time, practice, and skill required in manufacture. Application of the Sibley and Jakes model revealed that assessment was limited, with unprovenienced sandals, in areas of 1) identification of construction tools and special manufacturing sites, 2) understanding of symbolic function, and 3) anticipation of possible color or fiber changes to avoid interpretation errors.