Baby Carrier Item Number: Nbz682 from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

Coiled cedar root cradle with parallel slat base and wall construction. Overcast rim with cedar root bundle foundation. Two small loops have been attached to the proximal end and one on each side at near the distal end. Light coloured grass beading on the proximal end and along one side, interrupted with red and black cherry bark at regular intervals. Vertical design panels on both sides in alternating black and white or red and white combinations. Rawhide carrying straps extend across the cradle at the top and the bottom. These straps are sewn into the sides of the cradle. An opening is located in the distal end.

History Of Use

The four small loops attached to the top row of this cradle are an unusual feature. The small opening at the distal end functions as a urinal and may have had a hollow tube to accommodate the passage of urine at one time in the past. Shredded cedar bark, that had been pounded to softness, was usually placed as a liner inside of cradles in the past.

Cultural Context

children; basketry; plant technology

Item History

What

Name
Baby Carrier
Identification Number
Nbz682
Type of Item
carrier
Material
cedar root, rawhide skin, cedar wood, canary grass and cherry bark
Overall
height 14.7 cm, width 25.3 cm, depth 65.3 cm

Who

Culture
Coast Salish: Squamish ?
Previous Owner
Rout A. Harvey
Received from
Rout A. Harvey (Donor)

Where

Holding Institution
MOA: University of British Columbia
Made in
British Columbia, Canada
Collected in
North Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada ?

When

Creation Date
before 1880
Collection Date
between 1870 and 1880
Ownership Date
before March 14, 1977
Acquisition Date
on March 14, 1977

Other

Item Classes
basketry
Condition
good
Current Location
Case 4
Accession Number
0368/0004