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ClassificationsFurnishings-Accessories-baskets
Culture
Tlingit
Dateearly 20th Century
Made AtNorth America
MediumNative grass to Alaska or British Columbia, possibly spruce root
Dimensions2 × 2 5/8 × 2 7/8 in. (5.1 × 6.7 × 7.3 cm)
Credit LineGift of the Herbert W. Clark Trust
Object number2016.14.20
DescriptionTlingit spruce root baskets are considered among the finest examples of a weaving technique called two-strand twining. Several varieties of weave are commonly used in Tlingit basketry, including: two-strand twining, between weave (plaiting with alternative rows of two-strand twining), three-strand twining, and cross warp twining. While each technique has its merits, two-strand twining was commonly used to produce a strong, tightly woven basket while allowing for the addition of designs using false embroidery ornamentation.Historically, baskets in this tapered cylindrical shape might have been used to collect berries, roots, and shellfish, or for food storage, preparation, and serving. This particular example was collected in the early 20th century, meaning it also could have been produced for sale to tourists. Whichever may have been the case, their artistry is clearly evident. Abstract patterns are woven into the baskets, including motifs like butterfly wings, bear faces, whale teeth, path of the woodworm, tail of the raven, and flying goose. As they are passed down over generations, and through contact from Euro-Americans, Tlingit patterns have continually evolved over time.
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