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Trading at Taos Pueblo - 1635 Although most of the early historical records of life at Taos Pueblo were destroyed during the Pueblo revolt of 1680, this scene depicts what life might have been at this time. Once the colonists were established at San Gabriel, they began to trade at Taos Pueblo. It is recorded that the Indians shared precious corn with the Spanish who took it away in ox-drawn carretas. A Franciscan Friar always accompanied the trading venture. The casique, a Pueblo religious leader, holds a cane given to him by the Spanish, a symbol of authority for the headman. The man holding a mirror is startled to see a reflection of his face, while his wife admires colorful ribbons. The Spanish brought the concept of the outside oven, the horno. The women are taking freshly baked bread out of the horno. An irrigation system used by the Indians was further developed by the Spaniards. You can see the men digging an irrigation ditch in the background. A detail view of this panel (see below) is available as well. The size of this mural is 36 x 60 inches.
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