The Weaver, 1936 by Diego Rivera

A leader of the Mexican muralist movement in the 1920s who sought to challenge social and political iniquities, Diego Rivera often turned to indigenous themes to foster pride in Mexican culture.

In The Weaver, Rivera focused on the centuries-old tradition of weaving with a back-strap loom. The woman, a well-known weaver and popular artists' model named Luz Jiménez, appears intently focused on creating the intricate red, blue, white, and black pattern of the fabric that is rolled up in her lap. Placed against the spare background of Rivera's studio, the weaver's actions take on greater significance, giving her life and craft a poignant grace and quiet dignity.