Antique Maidu Indian Basket ca.1880 4.5" H x 8.5" D For Sale

ca.1880

4.5" H x 8.5" D

Good Condition

A low globular form with rime wear and general wear inside and out typical of native use for food preparation and presentation. With pleasing diamond forms making zig zag motif around body. Very small coil and even, small stitch allowed for high durability under extreme daily use which is also typical of the late 19th century examples.

Maidu baskets, crafted by the Maidu people of Northern California, showcase a rich tradition of weaving using materials from their diverse environment, which spans the Sierra Nevada foothills, Sacramento Valley, and surrounding areas. These baskets served both practical purposes—like cooking, storage, and gathering—and ceremonial roles, reflecting the Maidu’s skill in manipulating natural fibers. The primary materials used in Maidu basketry include:

• Willow (Salix spp.): A staple in Maidu basketry, willow shoots are harvested when young and flexible, typically in spring or fall. The bark is often peeled, and the shoots are split into rods for the warp (vertical structure) or finer strips for the weft (horizontal weaving). Willow’s strength and light color make it a foundation for both coiled and twined baskets, such as burden baskets or cooking vessels.
• Redbud (Cercis occidentalis): This hardwood shrub provides reddish-brown branches that are split and used for weaving, adding color and contrast to the lighter willow. It’s harvested in late fall or winter when the sap is down, ensuring flexibility.