Basket c. 20th century

This basket was crafted by Qwiqwidicciat, a Makah artist, using traditional weaving techniques and natural materials. Baskets like this one are not merely utilitarian objects but are deeply embedded in the cultural and historical fabric of the Makah people. For the Makah, basket weaving is an intergenerational practice, where skills and stories are passed down through families, especially amongst women. The designs woven into these baskets often carry symbolic meanings, reflecting the tribe's connection to the natural world, their history, and their social structures. Consider the labor and knowledge interwoven into each piece. These baskets represent a legacy of resilience and cultural preservation. These objects go beyond their practical use, becoming embodiments of identity, memory, and resistance against the erasures of colonization.