California
Northwestern Region

Vegetal fiber- perhaps sedge root or redbud and willow
ca. 19th century
Height: 6.5 in; Diameter: 16 in
Ritual Symbolism – Utilitarian

California was a hub for both coiled and twined baskets, and the Pomo peoples in this region are known for some of the finest fancy baskets.  This Northwestern California – Pomo people, large and well-preserved twined basket, is made from vegetal fiber- perhaps sedge root or redbud and willow- with a flared rim and linear motifs across the surface. The “half twist” overlay technique was used to create the raised bands and patterning that is only visible on the exterior.

This may have been a winnowing (sifting) basket – used to separate chaff during food preparation. Pomo twined basketry, the older of the two basket making techniques (coiled and twined), is notable for its use in staple utilitarian basketry. A hallmark of Northwestern California basketry are the nearly perfectly trimmed rims and the precision of the designs.

An old collection tag is attached to the side: Empire Patent / W.L. Ellarsen / Accession No 817/17 /Pomo.