Antique textiles have been a documented part of Native American culture for over two thousand years. For the , weaving was a gift of Spider Woman who taught the craft to the first Diné, or people. The loom was brought to The People by Spider Boy who taught them its meaning; the frame composed of the Sky and the Earth, the lashing of lightning, the warp of rain; the whole representing the weaver and her relationship between the Sky and the Earth. The first weaving of The People were made for personal use and as valuable trade items. Antique rug were renowned throughout North America for their beauty and utility, being soft and warm.