Gathering Basket c. 20th century

This exquisite gathering basket was created by a Pomo artist. The Pomo people, indigenous to Northern California, have a rich tradition of basket weaving that intricately intertwines with their cultural identity and history. Baskets weren’t just utilitarian objects; they were and are integral to Pomo social, spiritual, and economic life. The designs woven into each basket often carry deep symbolic meanings, reflecting the Pomo worldview, cosmology, and relationship with the natural world. The patterns seen here might represent stories, prayers, or connections to specific places and beings. Consider the historical context: the Pomo experienced immense disruption through colonization, impacting their land, culture, and way of life. The act of creating this basket can be seen as an act of resilience, cultural preservation, and resistance. It embodies a continuation of tradition amidst displacement and assimilation. When you stand before this gathering basket, you're not just looking at an object. You are seeing a story of a people, their artistry, and their enduring spirit.