Basketry Tray Item Number: A2285 from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

Round basketry tray of simple coiled work (bifurcated stitches) with watch-spring base construction. Top coiled row separated off into two handles and triple-strand braided rim. Design consists of a five-pointed central star, in red-white-red with a tri-colour diamond figure inside each arm, in the same colours. Series of checkered double-diamonds on exterior.

History Of Use

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.

Cultural Context

basketry; storage; plant technology

Iconographic Meaning

According to the collector's catalogue this tray has a star and arrow design.

Item History

What

Name
Basketry Tray
Identification Number
A2285
Type of Item
tray
Material
canary grass, cedar wood, cherry bark and cedar root
Manufacturing Technique
coiled and imbricated
Overall
height 7.5 cm, diameter 36.0 cm

Who

Culture
Coast Salish: Sto:lo ?
Previous Owner
George H. Raley
Received from
H. R. MacMillan (Funding source) and George H. Raley (Seller)

Where

Holding Institution
MOA: University of British Columbia
Made in
British Columbia, Canada

When

Creation Date
before 1934
Collection Date
between 1893 and 1934
Ownership Date
before November 1948
Acquisition Date
during November 1948

Other

Item Classes
basketry
Condition
good
Current Location
Case 31
Accession Number
1960/0322