1920s Apache Tray

1920s Apache basketry tray, hand-coiled from willow and devil’s claw. Human figures and geometric elements are incorporated into the design, with the naturally dark devil’s claw providing contrast against the warm willow. Apache basket makers became especially celebrated for their durable coiled construction and bold pictorial and geometric designs. Shallow trays like this were traditionally used for winnowing and preparing food, while increasingly elaborate examples were also woven for the growing collector and tourist markets of the early 20th century. 15” Diameter, 3.5” Depth Condition: Some missing stitches and minor rim damage