subject: The Importance Of Native American Baskets [print this page] Baskets made by Native Americans are made with care and creativity. The diverse designs are amazing. They use various methods passed down through generations to create these wonderful works of art.
Thought of as one of the oldest crafts done by Native Americans, basket weaving has a very distinct and unique style that varies from tribe to tribe. Some baskets from the southwest have been recorded to be 8000 years old by archaeologists. As seen in the various kinds of materials used, the diversity of tribes has given way to very distinct and unique styles. There are also numerous techniques for weaving, shaping the baskets and a number of patterns created.
Native Americans in the northeast use pounded ash splints and braided sweet grass in their basket making. For the Cherokee Indians, they make their baskets out of bundled pine needles or river cane wicker. In the southwest, coiled sumac as well as willow wood are the materials of choice. In the northeast, cedar bark spruce root and swamp grass are used.
There are many other kinds of materials used but one thing that is very prominent in all areas is the uniqueness of the baskets. The materials that are available are used and create the distinct styles, shapes and designs. When the displacement of Native Indians started, they adapted their own weaving styles with new materials, giving way to a new form or style of basket. The distinct styles from ancient times have been preserved and are still very evident today as seen through the generations and passing down of knowledge.
Hand crafted Native American baskets are amazing. The craftsmanship and designs are extremely beautiful. The patterns are very distinct to Native American traditions and the materials and colors appeal to the natural properties of the materials. These are extremely beautiful and make wonderful accent pieces for home decor as well as owning a piece of Native American history. The intricate handwork of Native American artisans is stunning.
Hand woven baskets are normally quite costly. And as with most antique items, it seems that the older the basket, the more costly. There are some baskets which are put on display in museums and are not put up for sale. Across America, these Native American museums offer insight to the historical significance and importance these baskets played among Native American people.
These woven works of art have a unique story. With each color change or design pattern difference, great significance is manifested. These historical baskets should be studied and admired for their ability to share secrets of long ago with mankind.
by: Craig Chambers
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