Hopi Basket Weaving

Photo taken in 1901 by A.C. Vroman

Photo by J.H. McGibbney taken in 1968

I guess I've had an interest in coiled baskets lately. I've been reading some very interesting articles on Hopi basket weaving. I'll pass on what little I know and I hope you enjoy the pictures.

The Hopi weavers are making a coiled style of basket which is the typical style for them. In the top picture, you can see the Hopis also used some 'standard' twill weaving techniques. Bright primary colors covering broad areas make up the decoration. The quality of this type of basket, resulting from the size of the coil foundation and the use of large areas of color, sets it apart from other native weaving. Designs, often done in bold bright colors, are either geometric or depictions of ceremonial Kachina figures.

Over time, the coiled baskets have improved in technique, but their design has not changed over the years. As in many instances with weaving, originally baskets were created to serve a function. Now many of the Hopi baskets are created strictly for art.

Baskets of Blessings,
Nancy