Arizona
Southwest / Hopi

Brush fibers, wood, pigment, metal
ca. 1980s
Length; 8 in; Width: 5 in
Idiophones – Struck Idiophones – Rattles

A unique coil weave 2nd Mesa basketry rattle with a white painted cotton wood handle. This rattle was possibly created by Hopi weaver Madeline Lamson, considering the artistic quality and color of the weave.  The design features symmetry and the colors are a strong and bright black and red against the natural background.  When shaken a metal bell rings from within.

Hopi Native American basket makers use three basic techniques: plating (cradle boards and Piki trays), wicker (Third Mesa) and coiling (Second Mesa), which is seen here. Their baskets, trays, plaques, and rattles are made from rabbit brush, sumac, dune brush and yucca.  Hopi Native American basketry is symbolic of Hopi Life past and present, including religion, dances, rainmaking, corn harvest and rites of passage.