This handwoven Apache Burden Basket dates back to 1890 and is woven in a twined technique using willow. Woven by the Apache women, it was a symbol of pride and a great part of Native American culture. These baskets were used for everyday use, such as gathering food or firewood and cultivating their crops. Worn on their backs with buckskin straps that went around their shoulders and the forehead to distribute the weight of the “burden”. This particular basket has beautiful tassels made from deer or cow skin and was likely used for ceremonial purposes. One such ceremony was the Sunrise Ceremony, marking a young girls passage into womanhood. I discovered this basket on a trip to Santa Fe and knew when I saw it that I had to paint it for its beauty and its history.
Original painting available through King Galleries | www.kinggalleries.com | 480.440.3912 (Santa Fe), 480.481.0187 (Scottsdale)
