Hopi 2nd Mesa Coiled Plaque with Eagle Design [SOLD]

Eagles are very important to many Native American tribes and using the image of an eagle as a design element in paintings, weavings, basketry, etc. is a recognition of that importance.  Hopi capture eagles and secure them on rooftops at the pueblo for ceremonial purposes.  They are taken care of, fed appropriately, and given ceremonial blessings.  Small 2^nd Mesa coiled plaque are made specifically for an eagle and taken to the roof and placed with the eagle in captivity.

This coiled plaque or shallow bowl is slightly oblong with the larger dimension in the vertical direction.  The prime design element is a large eagle that occupies almost the entire area of the bowl.  The basket was made in the 1980s and is in excellent condition.

The white color of the coils is from bleached and stripped yucca leaves.  The yellow coils are slightly sun bleached and split yucca leaves.  The red and black colors are split yucca leaves that have been dyed with native plant materials.  There is a loop at the top of the basket for hanging if desired.

The width of the split yucca leaves is amazingly consistent throughout the basket.  Each stitch is laid tightly against the next stitch in an unbelievable manner.

Condition: excellent original condition

Recommended Reading: Hopi Basket Weaving – Artistry in Natural Fibers by Helga Teiwes

Provenance: from the collection of a gentleman from Colorado who purchased Native arts and crafts while living in Albuquerque in the 1970s and 1980s.