Second Mesa Coiled Plaque (poota) with Raised Turtle Center [SOLD]

This Second Mesa large basket was created by an unknown Hopi basket weaver.  It is a brilliant example of the creativity, skill and dedication required to practice traditional coil basketry.  This basket was assembled with incredible skill, and its design is unique and appealing.  Its outer edge has rows of black, red, and yellow tones that link these outer colors to the white used for the inner area.  Its center rises a couple inches, creating a beautifully decorated shell for a large turtle.  Black imbrications decorate the shell.

Trays like this are rarely made for use today, as modern tools require significantly less effort to make or obtain.  Before modern utilities were available, basketry trays served a variety of purposes.  This one, with its elaborate and beautiful design, was made for the market.  It has a hanging loop on the back for display purposes.

Condition: very good condition

Provenance: this Second Mesa Coiled Plaque (poota) with Raised Turtle Center is from the large collection of a gentleman from California

Recommended Reading: AMERICAN INDIAN BASKETS I 1,500 Artist Biographies by Gregory Schaaf

Relative Links: Southwest Indian Basketry, Hopi Pueblo, Hopituh Shi-nu-mu