Monday, December 20, 2021

'Toy' Pomo Baskets --- Day 10/322

Walk: LP Nails

Distance: 1.6 cold, sleepy miles

Miniature and micro-miniature baskets by Pomo artists (Northern California), including  Joseppa Pinto Dick (Yolayo Pomo, ca 1862-1905) and Mary knight Benson (Yokayo Pomo, 187-1930), Sedge root foundations and weft, dyed bulrush root weft


From signage at de Young Museum exhibition,  Jules Tavernier and the Elem Pomo (through  April 17, 2022):

Pomo children formerly spent much of their infancy in "cradle," or baby basket. Traditionally, various objects were hung from the baby basket's hoop to engage the baby's attention, much like today's crib mobiles. These dangling items often embodied the family's wishes for the child's future. Miniature coiled baskets were used as one such toy, often attached to girls' cradles to inspire them to become talented weavers.      These tiny baskets became favorite novelty items among non-Native collectors as they competed to own "the smallest Indian basket in the world." Native weavers profited from their sale because miniature baskets required fewer materials and less time to make.
                                                                                                                    -Sherrie Smith-Ferri








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