19th C. Native American Papago Basket Devil's Claw

Native American, Papago culture, Sonoran Desert, Arizona / New Mexico, ca. 19th century. A very large and early Papago basket woven from native plants including Devil's Claw. The early Tohono O'odham baskets were primarily utilitarian - used to carry water, firewood, prepare food and store items. These baskets are handmade, woven with native plants including yucca, beargrass, and Devils Claw. The hues are natural as Native American weavers appreciated the natural colors of desert plants. This example is finely woven and presents an attractive 4-pointed starlike motif at the center surrounded by stylized geometric motifs. Size: 17.25" W x 5.25" H (43.8 cm x 13.3 cm)

The Tohono O'odham or Papago peoples have resided in the Sonoran Desert of Arizona and Mexico. Early Tohono O'odham Indian Baskets were used to carry water and firewood, as well as prepare food and store items. Papago basket forms include trays, baskets with lids, plaques, as well as pictorial baskets like this example.

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection; ex-Willis Henry Auctions, Inc., American Indian and Ethnographic Art Auction, Sunday, May 26, 2013, Lot 70

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#150938
Condition Report: Normal darkening commensurate with age. Otherwise excellent.