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Anthropology
Our Chumash Life pages for teachers and students provide a basic introduction to some aspects of traditional daily life. Our anthropologists answer questions about cultural anthropology, the history of Native Californians, ethnobotany, Native art, traditional tools, and technology.
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Coil Basket
I would like to know if this basket is Native American made, or is a tourist trade knock-off. If my pictures are not adequate, or you need more information, please let me know.
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Curator Response
Hi Roger,
Thank you for including these photos from two angles, with scale. Although there’s no substitute for seeing a basket in person, they are helpful.
Based on your photos, I think this is one of many imitation Native American baskets that are made in Nigeria and Pakistan, using Native-American-inspired designs with plant materials that are available in those areas, particularly palm leaves. Interestingly, I have seen baskets like this for sale in Indian-run gift stores at pueblos in the Southwest, presumably in the hope that buyers will (wrongly) assume they were locally Native-made. Sometimes Southwestern retailers are explicit about the origin, as you can see here online. They’re perfectly fine, well-made baskets, much more affordable than authentic Native American work.
Best,
Curator Emeritus of Ethnography Jan Timbrook, Ph.D.