Miniature Basket c. 20th century
tohonooodhampapago
natural stone pattern
circular oval feature
pottery
round design
animal print
wood background
repetitive shape and pattern
stoneware
united-states
regular pattern
round circular shape
This small, intricately woven basket, created by the Tohono O'odham people (also known as the Papago) in the 20th century, is a testament to their mastery of traditional craft. The basket is made of natural materials and features a distinctive design of stylized animal figures woven into the surface. These figures are likely representative of the Tohono O'odham's connection to the natural world and their rich cultural heritage. This miniature basket, now housed in the Minneapolis Institute of Art, exemplifies the artistry and skill passed down through generations of Tohono O'odham artisans.
Comments
In the early 1900s, many Euro-American women traveling through the Southwest region of the United States became infatuated with miniature Native American baskets, and some became avid collectors. Native women basket makers responded to this demand by creating ever-smaller baskets, utilizing the same harvesting, processing, and coiling techniques as those for personal use. Creating tightly woven, tiny baskets in an expanding range of designs and styles for their new clientele required the same levels of expertise and knowledge—but perhaps even more dexterity and skill.
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