Five Extraordinary Native American coiled basketry trays, circa 1890–1930s

Woven in the American Southwest 🇺🇸

Five baskets. Five different patterns. The best way to display them is all five together.

This striking collection of large Native American coiled basketry trays dates from probably the first half of the 20th century, each woven by hand in natural fibres and decorated with bold geometric designs.

At approximately 18 inches (46–48 cm) across each, these are substantial pieces. Look closely and no two are alike: radiating spokes, concentric bands, stepped motifs and tiny repeating blocks emerge from hundreds of tightly worked coils in shades of straw, tobacco and black, with occasional touches of colour.

Their precise tribal attribution has been lost, but their coiled construction, materials and geometric decoration are characteristic of the basketry traditions of the American Southwest. The auction house catalogued the collection more cautiously as “Native American or Tribal African”; having examined them in hand, we believe a Southwestern Native American origin is the more likely attribution.

They were made as useful objects rather than wall art, and their age shows. There are old losses and repairs to some of the rims, variations in shape and colour, and the wonderful irregularities that come from being woven entirely by hand.

But put them on a wall today and their original purpose almost becomes secondary… individually, each is a beautiful piece of traditional basketry.

Together, they are spectacular.

Native American | Five coiled basketry trays | American Southwest | Probably first half 20th century | Approx. 46-48 cm diameter

Available Now - £285 for the collection + shipping

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Extraordinary Things, Americana.