Storage Basket Item Number: Nbz815 a-b from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

Rectangular coiled cedar root basket (a) with lid (b). Basket has trapezoid shaped profile when viewed from the ends. Constructed with parallel wood slats, overcast rim and handles. Handles are formed by creating a loop in the rim at each of the ends. Red cherry bark beading on handles and rim. Chevron shaped designs decorate the surface of the basket in canary grass bordered with black or red cherry bark.

History Of Use

Coiled basketry traditionally had many uses. It was used for storage of foods, medicines and personal belongings. Some baskets were used for cooking and boiling water, while others had more private uses. Haeberlin and Teit (1928) suggest that in the past not all women were basket makers, but that the skill became more widespread during the early and middle twentieth century when basketry was highly collectible and it became a source of income for many local First Nations women. Basket making declined after the 1950s, but it is still present in many Coast Salish communities and interest is growing.

Cultural Context

basketry; storage; plant technology

Iconographic Meaning

According to Nlaka'pamux Elder Minnie Peters this basket is decorated with an Indian Trail design. The design also resembles the flying geese design.

Item History

What

Name
Storage Basket
Identification Number
Nbz815 a-b
Type of Item
basket
Material
canary grass, cedar root, wood and cherry bark
Manufacturing Technique
coiled and imbricated
Overall
height 29.5 cm, width 47.0 cm, depth 30.0 cm

Who

Culture
Coast Salish: Sto:lo
Previous Owner
Alan R. Sawyer
Received from
Alan R. Sawyer (Donor)

Where

Holding Institution
MOA: University of British Columbia
Made in
British Columbia, Canada

When

Creation Date
before 1910
Collection Date
during 1910
Ownership Date
before December 9, 1983
Acquisition Date
on December 9, 1983

Other

Item Classes
basketry
Condition
fair
Current Location
Case 29
Accession Number
0922/0002 a-b