Alaska, Inuit
Circa 1940
Coiled grass, natural dyes
Height 9 1/2" (24.1 cm); diameter 6 3/4" (17.1 cm)
Provenance: Private California collection; Christie's New York, June 2006, Lot 1683
Lidded coiled baskets represent one of the most technically demanding forms in Inuit basketry, the weaver required to construct a fitted cover that maintains the proportional relationship and decorative continuity of the body below. Polychrome geometric decoration integrated into the coiled structure requires planning the color sequence across the full circumference of both body and lid simultaneously, a degree of technical control that distinguishes accomplished basket makers within the tradition. Baskets of this type produced circa 1940 reflect the sustained vitality of Inuit coiled basketry through the mid-20th century despite increasing outside market influence on production.
This basket is worked in tightly coiled grass with polychrome geometric patterning in earth tones distributed across the body and continued onto the domed lid, the decoration consistent in scale and rhythm throughout. The fitted lid with its knob finial is intact, and the overall form is well-proportioned with an even coil and clean base. Provenance traces to a private California collection and Christie's New York, June 2006, Lot 1683.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
Alaska, Inuit
Circa 1940
Coiled grass, natural dyes
Height 9 1/2" (24.1 cm); diameter 6 3/4" (17.1 cm)
Provenance: Private California collection; Christie's New York, June 2006, Lot 1683
Lidded coiled baskets represent one of the most technically demanding forms in Inuit basketry, the weaver required to construct a fitted cover that maintains the proportional relationship and decorative continuity of the body below. Polychrome geometric decoration integrated into the coiled structure requires planning the color sequence across the full circumference of both body and lid simultaneously, a degree of technical control that distinguishes accomplished basket makers within the tradition. Baskets of this type produced circa 1940 reflect the sustained vitality of Inuit coiled basketry through the mid-20th century despite increasing outside market influence on production.
This basket is worked in tightly coiled grass with polychrome geometric patterning in earth tones distributed across the body and continued onto the domed lid, the decoration consistent in scale and rhythm throughout. The fitted lid with its knob finial is intact, and the overall form is well-proportioned with an even coil and clean base. Provenance traces to a private California collection and Christie's New York, June 2006, Lot 1683.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
