Second Mesa Coiled Plaque (poota) Sunrise Design [SOLD]

This Second Mesa coiled plaque has a central design that is interpreted as representative of the sunrise.  There is a coil in a warm orange color, representing the color of the sun as it breaks above the horizon.  Within those coils, there are rays rising.  The black lines establish the four cardinal directions.  Beyond the orange coil there are sun rays and an outer design of black stepped elements representing the mesas or mountains.

What’s most impressive about this piece is the way that its complex designs feel so natural.  Each element fits in or around its neighboring elements quite gracefully, and nothing feels as though it was forced into place or created just to occupy a blank area.  This is a fine example of Hopi Second Mesa coil basketry.

The stitching of the coils is tight and closely stacked, and the diameter of the coils is consistent throughout the basket.  There is a hanging loop on the back.

Condition: new condition

Provenance: this Second Mesa Coiled Plaque (poota) Sunrise Design 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