Basket c. early 20th century

This basket was woven by an Indé (Apache) artist, presenting a rich array of symbolic motifs. Dominating the design are human figures, crosses, and geometric patterns, each carrying profound significance within Apache culture. The human figures may represent ancestors or spirits, embodying a connection to the past and the spiritual realm. Consider the cross, a symbol that transcends cultures. While often associated with Christianity, its roots extend far deeper, appearing in ancient civilizations to represent the four cardinal directions or the intersection of the earthly and divine. The cross appears as a symbol across time, from ancient Egyptian art to Mesoamerican cultures, each time shifting in meaning. Such recurring motifs speak to a collective memory, a subconscious recognition of symbols that have resonated throughout human history. This design has a powerful emotional and psychological weight, engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level, evoking a sense of connection to ancestral traditions. The spiral lines may represent cyclical patterns, linking the past with the future. This symbol has resurfaced, evolved, and taken on new meanings in different historical contexts.