This coiled basket plaque features a red and black dyed design inspired by the Navajo wedding basket pattern. The plaque includes a loop for hanging, indicating it may have been used decoratively as well as ceremonially.
Navajo wedding basket motifs typically include a central opening, stepped elements representing life paths, and contrasting bands symbolizing harmony and protection. The dyed yucca coils in this plaque echo those symbolic meanings.
Interested in Natural history?
Get updates with your personalized Culture Weekly
You are all set!
Your first Culture Weekly will arrive this week.