Featured Big Thompson River Basket

Discussion in 'Tribal Art' started by Potteryplease, May 31, 2026 at 9:13 PM.

  1. Potteryplease

    Potteryplease Well-Known Member

    I think I have this accurately identified as a Thompson River / Inland Salish basket.

    It's huge: over 20" / 50cm. Condition issues, and missing its lid. Still. A great size and a great patina. 1920's?

    Any /all comments welcome. Paging my friend Mr. @komokwa...

    IMG_6679.jpeg IMG_6680.jpeg IMG_6681.jpeg IMG_6682.jpeg IMG_6683.jpeg
     
    Last edited: May 31, 2026 at 10:50 PM
    bosko69, 2manybooks, komokwa and 3 others like this.
  2. evelyb30

    evelyb30 Well-Known Member

    I'm wondering if it's not even older. No idea of whodunnit.
     
  3. Potteryplease

    Potteryplease Well-Known Member

    Could be.... the patina is pronounced. And quite lovely!
     
    komokwa likes this.
  4. komokwa

    komokwa The Truth is out there...!

    The damage and missing lid is unfortunate , but that's why it came to you...!
    With no damage and a secure lid , that size & with that nice imbrication , yer talking 4 figures !

    Yes T R , and maybe a decade earlier that you suggest.....

    AI gets an OK! on this one..''

    .
    An imbricated basket is a type of traditionally coiled basket featuring a decorative overlay technique. Primarily crafted by Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest Coast (such as the Salish and Klickitat), this intricate style is celebrated for its distinctive appearance and structural durability. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

    Key Characteristics
    • The Weaving Technique: Decorative materials (like cherry bark, beargrass, or horsetail root) are folded under each sewing stitch as the basket is being coiled. The overlay loops precisely over the stitches on the outer surface, entirely concealing them. [1, 2, 3, 4]
    • Texture & Design: The carefully folded patterns create a raised, textured appearance that often resembles rows of corn kernels. Because the fold is only on the exterior, the inside of the basket remains smooth and uniform. [1]
    • Complex Patterns: Artisans use naturally dyed or differently colored materials to create highly detailed, geometric motifs like diamonds, pyramids, and zig-zags. [1, 2, 3, 4]
    • Purpose & Value: Historically used for carrying berries or water, these pieces are now widely recognized as fine art. Due to the time-intensive process required to weave them, vintage or authentic contemporary pieces are highly collectible
     
    Potteryplease likes this.
  5. komokwa

    komokwa The Truth is out there...!

    [​IMG]

    22 x 13.5 x 13.5.......... $ 900
     
    Potteryplease likes this.
  6. Potteryplease

    Potteryplease Well-Known Member

    Thanks for the opinions buddy!
     
    komokwa likes this.
  7. komokwa

    komokwa The Truth is out there...!

    good example of an old craft !!!!!!!!

    nice find !!:happy:
     
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