Large Hopi Pueblo Basketry Tray with Six Turtles and Raised Center [SOLD]

This massive tray basket was created by an unknown Hopi Second Mesa 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, yellow, and a brownish tone that links these outer colors to the white used for the inner area.  Its center rises up about three inches, creating a beautifully decorated shell for a large turtle.  Six baby turtles surround the large turtle, swimming out toward the basket’s rim. 

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 most likely made for the market.  It’s one of the most unique and beautiful Hopi trays we have had the pleasure of handling.  At over 21 inches in diameter, it’s one of the largest, too. 

Condition: Excellent condition.  One small stitch of black imbrication is missing from the raised center.

Provenance: from the large collection of Allan Nelson, an avid Native American art collector. 

Relative Links: Hopi Pueblo, Native American Baskets