Basketry Tray Item Number: A7261 from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

Rectangular, coiled cedar root tray; parallel slat construction and a handle at either end. Partial imbrication in grass and red and black cherry bark. Design forms interlocking diamond or zig-zag patterns.

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.

Iconographic Meaning

Vertical zigzag designs may represent snake trails or lightning, while horizontal zigzag designs may symbolize mountain chains.

Item History

What

Name
Basketry Tray
Identification Number
A7261
Type of Item
tray
Material
cedar root, cherry bark, wood, grass and dye
Manufacturing Technique
coiled, dyed and imbricated
Overall
height 5.1 cm, width 62.2 cm, depth 35.6 cm

Who

Culture
Coast Salish: Sto:lo
Previous Owner
John M. Buchanan, Sheila Buchanan and G. S. Scholefield
Received from
Sheila Buchanan (Donor) and G. S. Scholefield (Donor)

Where

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

When

Creation Date
before 1928
Collection Date
between 1920 and 1950
Ownership Date
before July 1960
Acquisition Date
during July 1960

Other

Item Classes
basketry
Condition
good
Accession Number
0021/0010