Papago Tohono O’odham Basket with Canadian Lidded Basket Duo

A combined lot of two handwoven baskets from different traditions: a Papago (Tohono O’odham) open basket and a Canadian lidded basket.

The Papago basket is a shallow coiled form, likely worked in yucca or similar desert fibers, with darker elements (possibly devil’s claw or dyed fiber) creating understated banding. The visible coil structure and stitching align with Southwest coiled basketry techniques, where bundles are sewn in a continuous spiral rather than woven on a loom. Its open, low form is consistent with small utility or sale baskets produced in the 20th century.

The Canadian basket contrasts in both form and construction, with a fitted lid, upright walls, and a tighter, more vertical weave. The red and green dyed elements are integrated into the structure rather than applied, suggesting a functional storage form adapted with decorative banding—common in Canadian folk and Indigenous basket traditions using splint or root materials.

Condition:
Good condition with age-appropriate wear. Notable wear and some damage present on the side and along the inside rim, as shown. Both remain structurally intact.

Dimensions:
Canadian basket with lid: 3" x 6"
Papago basket: 1 1/8" x 5 1/4"
Soup shown in photos for scale.