This is a wonderful antique Hopi wicker basketry plaque with a chubby butterfly made in the traditional style only woven at Third Mesa, on the Hopi Reservation. Butterflies are important spiritually to the Hopi, associated with rain & the pollination of their crops. In Hopi these shallow wicker baskets are called yungyapngölökpu. Baskets are given as gifts in Hopi culture, used as a form of currency for barter & are used for ceremonies. This features a graphic butterfly, with outstretched wings & antennae detailing at the top. This was woven from sumac & rabbit brush in natural, faded white & dark brown that was dyed. The edge is wrapped in yucca. The background color has deepened to a warm brown patina with time, showing it's age from the very early 20th century. This is unsigned. It measures approx 12.75" H x 12.75" W x 1.5" D. It has a price of $5.00 pencilled on the front at 3:00 position. This would look great hanging on the wall & would make an impact in any space. I also like baskets on a stand as a interesting background piece in a grouping of southwest collectibles on a shelf. This wonderful iconic antique piece is very traditional & fun! It is sure to become a favorite piece in any collection.
Excellent Condition! The weaving is strong & complete. There is a little fading to the white dyed material, normal for it's approx age of a hundred years old. Has had a little cosmetic restoration.