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Cultural Context

basketry; storage

Description

Rectangular basket of simple coiled work (bifurcated stitches) with parallel slat base and lid construction. Partially imbricated and beaded. Two wires reinforce overcast rim, and leather strap hinges are sewn on. Copper handles are screwed into the sides. Alternating rows of imbrication and beading are arranged in a band of alternating cherry bark and cat-tail squares and a beaded section in cat-tail. Lid has similar design. The red bands are crabapple. Colours: black, tan.

History Of Use

Catalogue says "old hamper for storing furs." 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.