Papago Shallow Tray Basket with Rattlesnake Design

The Rattlesnake Basket: A Unique Work of Art of Southwest Indian Culture

Baskets, having been utilized for centuries, are an indispensable part of life for the Southwest Indians. They serve a multitude of purposes, from gathering and carrying to food preparation, rainmaking, and spiritual ceremonies. Initially, basket weaving was a craft born out of necessity, but it gradually evolved to become an integral part of various aspects of Native life. As weavers select materials for their creations, they reflect on the blessings they have received, offering prayers of gratitude to the Divine.

Upon its arrival, this coiled basket presented a puzzle. At first glance, it seemed to be a product of Hopi Pueblo, Second Mesa craftsmanship, yet its style was unlike any Hopi work we had seen before. Our attention then turned to the Arizona tribes of Akimel O'odham (formerly Pima) and Tohono O'odham (formerly Papago) as potential creators. This basket stands out due to its unique form, deviating from the typical bowl shape or flat design of most baskets. Instead, it resembles a flat tray with curved edges all around. Its unusually heavy weight suggests a dense and skillful weave. Given its atypical style, we surmise that the basket was likely crafted for sale rather than for use in a Native home. The shallow tray design with a short, raised wall is characteristic of Tohono O'odham basketry, leading us to attribute this basket to their craftsmanship and origin.

The basket's coloration is visually appealing, with tan as the dominant hue, complemented by strategically placed shades of light and dark brown throughout the design. The central motif, however, is perhaps the most striking feature of this basket. The head of a rattlesnake is depicted in the center, spiraling outwards through the alternating light and dark brown colors. The edge of the basket showcases the rattlesnake's tail, represented by nine evenly spaced, finely woven brown threads.

Snakes hold a significant place in the spiritual world of many Native tribes, serving as messengers to the spirits of Earth. Rattlesnakes are revered and treated with utmost respect and appreciation. They symbolize empowerment and sacredness, embodying a profound connection to and communication with the underworld.

Condition: excellent condition

Provenance: this Papago Shallow Tray Basket with Rattlesnake Design is from the collection of a gentleman from California

Recommended Reading:  Indian Baskets of the Southwest by Clara Lee Tanner, University of Arizona Press, Tucson

TAGS: Akimel O´odham - Pima, Southwest Indian Basketry, Tohono O'odham - Papago, Apache