How to Select and Care for Native American Baskets

Collecting Indian Baskets

Materials

The materials utilized in basket construction are as varied as the techniques of manufacture. Locally available plant materials are exploited to create a variety of baskets, from the soft-sided baskets once produced by the Nez Perce, to the rigid wood splints of the Penobscots. Animal materials are also utiliex in baskets, and although they occur most commonly in decorative elements, they are sometimes found in basic construction materials, as in Papago horsehair and Eskimo baleen baskets. Commercial fibers also are incorporated into Native American baskets. The coiled baskets of the Florida Seminoles, for example, are held together by commercial thread.

These same materials are utilized, not only in the manufacture of the basic basket, but also may serve in decoration. Carved ivory handles on Eskimo baskets and feathers used on Pomo baskets are but two examples of animal products utilized in basket decoration.. Glass beads sometimes cover baskets made by the Paiutes and are used on the rims of Pima baskets. Yarn tufts on Tulare baskets represent another example of commercially manufactured materials of Euro-American origin that have been used for decades by Native Americans in the decoration of baskets.

Finding a Basket to Buy

Baskets are available from the makers themselves, tribal and regional craft co-ops and retailers. Prices range from a few dollars to thousands.

In acquiring baskets, always work with a reputable and knowledgeable dealer. This does not mean you must actually visit a shop. There are artists, shops and co-ops that will ship baskets on approval.

When purchasing any basket, new or old, request and record as much information as can be obtained even if the information appears to be very incorrect. Frequently, additional research will verify part of the information as true, or will provide interesting insights as to how the misinformation developed. As your knowledge grows, so will your appreciation of the art of basket weaving.

Selecting a basket is very much a personal matter. Some points to consider are:

• Each single element should be of consistent size and color
• The design should be well-placed on the basket and repetitive design elements should be evenly spaced
• The size of the design elements should be in proportion to the size of the basket
• The technique used in construction.

Traditional designs are more popular than non-traditional ones. However, the novelty of non-traditional elements may outweigh other factors in terms of appeal or collectibility.

Basket Care

Once you have purchased a basket, you will want to display it so that you and others will enjoy it. Keep your baskets clean. Do not display them in areas where they are likely to attract airborne dirt and grease, such as kitchens. Avoid areas of excessive dampness and excessive dryness. Avoid display areas in direct sunlight. Check baskets occasionally for insect damage.

Much damage to baskets occurs in handling them. Always use two hands to pick up the basket, one to guide it, the other to balance it.

Collecting Authentic Native American Baskets

Collecting American Indian baskets is one of the most satisfying and interesting areas of involvement with Native American arts. The collector can look forward to a collection that is aesthetically pleasing and illustrates a high degree of technical achievement.

Additionally, each purchase of an Indian basket adds to the demand and helps preserve this art among those tribes who still weave baskets.

Article by Marshall Gettys for the Indian Arts and Crafts Association (used with permission)