Hopi Third Mesa Wicker Plaque with Green Center [SOLD]

Hopi wicker plaques vary significantly in design patterns, however, none of the designs is arbitrary.  The designs each have meaning to the Hopi, and there are no variations allowed in the pattern.  This plaque may appear to us just to be a colorful design but there is a reason for each element.  If we consulted a Third Mesa basket maker, she would be able to explain and name this design for us, but, unfortunately, I no longer know any of the basket makers.  For now, it will remain a mystery.

At the center is a rounded form in forest green.  Beyond this, alternating rows of yellow and purple extend out toward the rim.  Orange and green forms appear near the rim.  Each of these bands of color is separated by thin lines of black and white.  The central black and white framing lines curve inward and expand, forming four diamonds within the purple and yellow lines.

Condition: very good condition

Provenance:  this Hopi Third Mesa Wicker Plaque with Green 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