Classic Antique Navajo Dine' Indian Wedding Basket Prob. 1920-50

Description

Classic Antique Navajo or Dine' Indian Wedding Basket with G
reat Patina, P
robably 1920-1950,
11-5/8" diameter and 2" deep
This authentic Navajo or Dine' traditional wedding basket is in very good condition except for moderate fading on the front of the basket.  The excellent patina points to it being an older example.
Referring to Andrew Hunter Whiteford,
Southwestern Indian Baskets
, 1988, School of American Research Press, Santa Fe, pgs. 28-44, the author refers to an extremely high demand for ceremonial baskets among the Navajo for both weddings and the myriad of religious ceremonies, chants, healings, etc.  He also states that the Navajo made very few baskets after 1890 as artisans increasingly moved into the weaving of rugs for the tourist trade for economic reasons.  Selling and trading their textiles to the Trading Posts, they in turn acquired the numerous baskets required for traditional ceremonies and weddings which were supplied to the posts by very competent Southern Paiute and Ute basketmakers.  It also is apparent that wedding baskets were used in ceremonial events as well as weddings.
T
he design of these baskets is very specific with the pathway or "doorway" opening to the finish point of the rim and the opening oriented to the East in most rituals.
Dimensions:  11-5/8" diameter, 2" deep
Condition:  Very Good.  No breaks or stitch loss.  Moderate fading on front in keeping with aniline dye use on colored elements (see photos)
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