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Navajo Baskets
Navajo Modified Ceremonial Basket - Evelyn Cly (#184)
$250.00
Artist: Evelyn Cly
Navajo Basketry
11 1/2" x 1 1/2" deep
Rounds: 17
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About the artist:
Evelyn's baskets are known for their extremely tight weave and open geometric designs. Perhaps the best indicator of how valuable her baskets are is that different traders have her baskets in their private collections.
Related legends:
Navajo Ceremonial Baskets
The Navajo wedding basket also reflects many values of traditional life and so often contains all six sacred mountains, including Huerfano and Gobernador Knob, though the size of the basket may determine the numher of mountains in the design. The center spot in the basket represents the beginning of this world, where the Navajo people emerged from a reed? More about this legend
Navajo Ceremonial Basket - Evelyn Cly (#185)
$250.00
Artist: Evelyn Cly
Navajo Basket
10" x 1 1/2" deep
Rounds: 15
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.
About the artist:
Evelyn's baskets are known for their extremely tight weave and open geometric designs. Perhaps the best indicator of how valuable her baskets are is that different traders have her baskets in their private collections.
See full biography
Related legends:
Navajo Ceremonial Baskets
The Navajo wedding basket also reflects many values of traditional life and so often contains all six sacred mountains, including Huerfano and Gobernador Knob, though the size of the basket may determine the numher of mountains in the design. The center spot in the basket represents the beginning of this world, where the Navajo people emerged from a reed? More about this legend
Navajo Ceremonial Basket - Jenny Rock (#02)
$250.00
Artist: Jenny Rock
Navajo Basket
11 1/4" x 1 1/4" deep
Rounds: 18
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.
Navajo Ceremonial Basket - Peggy Black (#412)
$250.00
Artist: Peggy Black
Navajo Basket
10" x 1 1/2" deep
Rounds: 16
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.
About the artist:
One of the famous Douglas Mesa basket weavers, there wasn't much question about what Peggy Rock Black would choose to pursue in life. She was born into a family of weavers before she married into an equally talented family of weavers.
About the artist:
One of the famous Douglas Mesa basket weavers, there wasn't much question about what Peggy Rock Black would choose to pursue in life. She was born into a family of weavers before she married into an equally talented family of weavers.
Related legends:
Navajo Ceremonial Baskets
The Navajo wedding basket also reflects many values of traditional life and so often contains all six sacred mountains, including Huerfano and Gobernador Knob, though the size of the basket may determine the numher of mountains in the design. The center spot in the basket represents the beginning of this world, where the Navajo people emerged from a reed? More about this legend
Navajo Kokopelli Basket - Nellie Black (#01)
$250.00
Artist: Nellie Black
Navajo Baskets
9" x 1/2" deep
Rounds: 15
Kokopelli is a cross-cultural icon. To the Navajo he is Water Sprinkler; to the Hopi he represents the Flute Clan. To the Ancient Pueblos . . . well that is anyone's guess, and speculate they do. They being archaeologists, anthropologists and just about everyone out there with a "gist" at the end of their title. Whatever the case, Kokopelli is one of the most portrayed images of the Southwest. So, Navajo basket weaver Nellie Black has woven her very own interpretation of this well-known figure and has done an impressive job. Here's to the flute player!
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.
Related legends:
Kokopelli
Much speculation surrounds this mystic figure of the great southwest. He, or she in some cases, is cross cultural, and is one of the most represented figures in American Indian lore. To the ancient people of the southwest he is thought to have been a Toltec, or possibly one of many, traveling up from South America to trade with local inhabitants? More about this legend
Navajo Ceremonial Basket - Betty Rock Johnson (#120)
$250.00
Artist: Betty Rock Johnson
Navajo Basket
9 1/8" x 2" deep
Rounds: 16
Betty Rock Johnson is related to Joann Johnson, so it's no wonder that she can produce wonderful works of art like this Navajo ceremonial basket. Tight weaves are not something out of nature for Betty. She has a strong hand and it shows in her weave. The traditional ceremonial basket is very useful to the Navajo medicine men. They use the basket to perform ceremonies of marriage between man a woman. The three red rings in the basket represent the coming together of the two humans and the bond that they have with each other. They rings are normally called blood rings in traditional sense.
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.
About the artist:
Born and raised on the Eastern edge of Monument Valley, Betty Rock Johnson is a true child of the desert. Raised traditionally in the old way of the Dine ("the people"). She has the look and character of an Elder. The sun, wind, and rain are responsible for the unique character of both the land formations and the furrowed brow and leathery features of its residents. Betty is a product of the elements and shows Mother Earth's handiwork in her eyes and countenance. A basket weaver from a very young age Betty Johnson has perfected her art and creates unique interpretations of her native culture and beliefs. Betty has also produced a number of offspring, she has trained in basket weaving to make it a family affair - an effort the family both enjoys a great deal and relies on to supplement their income. See full biography
Related legends:
Navajo Ceremonial Baskets
The Navajo wedding basket also reflects many values of traditional life and so often contains all six sacred mountains, including Huerfano and Gobernador Knob, though the size of the basket may determine the numher of mountains in the design. The center spot in the basket represents the beginning of this world, where the Navajo people emerged from a reed? More about this legend
Navajo Ceremonial Basket - Betty Rock Johnson (#119)
$300.00
Artist: Betty Rock Johnson
Navajo Basket
10 1/2" x 2" deep
Rounds: 18
Betty Rock Johnson weaves some of the best Navajo Ceremonial Baskets on the market today. Her baskets are symmetrical, balanced, finely woven and crafted to the highest standards of detailed design. A firm foundation and intricate weave make for a highly collectible basket. Medicine Men and collectors alike battle to get their hands on Betty's baskets. Tradition and culture are found here.
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.
About the artist:
Born and raised on the Eastern edge of Monument Valley, Betty Rock Johnson is a true child of the desert. Raised traditionally in the old way of the Dine ("the people"). She has the look and character of an Elder. The sun, wind, and rain are responsible for the unique character of both the land formations and the furrowed brow and leathery features of its residents. Betty is a product of the elements and shows Mother Earth's handiwork in her eyes and countenance. A basket weaver from a very young age Betty Johnson has perfected her art and creates unique interpretations of her native culture and beliefs. Betty has also produced a number of offspring, she has trained in basket weaving to make it a family affair - an effort the family both enjoys a great deal and relies on to supplement their income. See full biography
Related legends:
Navajo Ceremonial Baskets
The Navajo wedding basket also reflects many values of traditional life and so often contains all six sacred mountains, including Huerfano and Gobernador Knob, though the size of the basket may determine the numher of mountains in the design. The center spot in the basket represents the beginning of this world, where the Navajo people emerged from a reed? More about this legend
Hopi Star Design Basket Tray (#16)
$360.00
Hopi Basket
13 3/4" x 15 rounds
From the John Richardson collection, this 1960s Hopi tray has arrived at the trading post looking for a new home. Made with yucca fibre and natural dyes, it is in reasonably good condition. After about 50 years, it has accumulated a few breaks along the rim, but otherwise the old gal is in shapely.
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.
Navajo Ceremonial Basket - Annie Rock (#02)
$375.00
Artist: Annie Rock
Navajo Basket
15" x 1 3/4" deep
Rounds: 15
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.
About the artist:
Related legends:
Navajo Ceremonial Baskets
The Navajo wedding basket also reflects many values of traditional life and so often contains all six sacred mountains, including Huerfano and Gobernador Knob, though the size of the basket may determine the numher of mountains in the design. The center spot in the basket represents the beginning of this world, where the Navajo people emerged from a reed? More about this legend
Navajo Ceremonial Basket - Annie Rock (#03)
$375.00
Artist: Annie Rock
Navajo Basket
14" x 2" deep
Rounds: 14
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.
About the artist:
Related legends:
Navajo Ceremonial Baskets
The Navajo wedding basket also reflects many values of traditional life and so often contains all six sacred mountains, including Huerfano and Gobernador Knob, though the size of the basket may determine the numher of mountains in the design. The center spot in the basket represents the beginning of this world, where the Navajo people emerged from a reed? More about this legend
Tohono O'odham Woven Basket w/ Handle (#17)
$375.00
Artist: Tohono O'odham
Native American Basketry
10" across 8 1/2" tall
When this basket was first woven, sometime in the late 1960s or early 70s, the weaver would have been recognized as Papago. The Papago people are, however, now known as the Tohono O'odham. They are a Native American group primarily residing in the Sonoran Desert of southeastern Arizona and northwestern Mexico. Today there is a Tohono O'odham Nation located in southern Arizona. It is unfortunate the weaver has gone undocumented. Whoever he/she was, however, the weaving abilities demonstrated with this basket are highly refined.
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Related legends:
Wickerwork
The carrying basket is even less frequently seen than the water jar. tsizis (tsi, hair, and zis, or azis, a bag or pouch, from the mode of carrying it over the hair of the forehead) is used at present for gathering the hashkan, or yucca fruit, for syrup. The baskets are plaited of willow twigs much after the style of our own baskets, but have neither handle nor finished rim? More about this legend
Navajo Cyclone, Wind and Stars Basket - Gene Johnson (#06)
$400.00
Artist: Gene Johnson
Navajo Basket
10 3/4" x 2" deep
Rounds: 19
The Navajo philosophy of nature upholding, guarding and protecting the earthly realm of humans is geometrically represented in this Gene Johnson basket. Images of cyclones, wind and stars surrounding and preserving the Navajo universe are dominantly displayed. Through his woven works of art, Gene is a humble yet clever ambassador for the Navajo tradition and culture.
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About the artist:
Related legends:
Navajo Core of the Universe
In the Beginning the People lived in several worlds below. Successively they emerged from them to a new world above. In the middle of this new world stood a great rock. Extending through all the previous underworlds and protruding above this one, it was the core of the universe, rooted in time and space. It was oriented to the four directions, and its sides glowed with their corresponding colors white on the east, blue on the south, yellow-red on the west, black on the north?
Cyclone, Wind, Stars
"Then they placed twelve big white cyclones (Niholtso) in the east under the edge of the world, and twelve blue cyclones (Niholtso-doklizh), under the edge of the world at the south, and twelve yellow cyclones (Niholtso-klitsoi) in the west under the edge of the world, and twelve black cyclones under the north. And these forty-eight cyclones are what hold the world up. They also sent all kinds of winds up to the sky to hold up the sky and stars."? More about this legend
Certificate of Authenticity
Tohono O'odham 3 Pedal Squash Blossom Willow Basket - Gladys Antone (#01)
$490.00
Artist: Gladys Antone
Native American Basketry
7" x 1" deep
Rounds: 16
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.
Related legends:
Navajo Basketry
Basketry is a woman's industry, which is also pursued by the nadle (he changes), hermaphrodites, or men skilled in the arts and industries of both men and women. Basketry, however, is not classified with textile fabrics (yistl'o), but with sewing (nalkhad). It is of interest also that, while the basket is in progress, the sewer is untouched and avoided by the members of her family?
Hopi Soyok Wahti Burden Basket - Dorlene Gashweseoma (#01)
$495.00
Artist: Dorlene Gashweseoma
Basket
9" wide x 9" tall x 7" deep
Jana has been a great collector of Southwest baskets, and this Hopi Soyok Wuhti Burden Basket was one of her trade items. Many years ago as she traveled the backwoods of the Colorado Plateau she acquired this woven piece on the Hopi mesas. She is now willing to let it find a new home. May you love it as she did.
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.
Paiute Butterfly Basket - Grace Lehi (#01)
$600.00
Artist: Grace Lehi
7 1/8" x 3/4" deep
Rounds: 18
Here in Canyon Country we don't often see baskets from the San Juan Paiute. The reason is that Navajo Mountain is a fur piece from Bluff, and the trip can be difficult to navigate. This basket actually made its way across the Colorado River drainage twenty some odd years ago. Back then we purchased it from Grace Lehi and promptly put it away. It is now time to bring it back into the light and share it with others who have the same interest.
Related legends:
Navajo Basketry
Basketry is a woman's industry, which is also pursued by the nadle (he changes), hermaphrodites, or men skilled in the arts and industries of both men and women. Basketry, however, is not classified with textile fabrics (yistl'o), but with sewing (nalkhad). It is of interest also that, while the basket is in progress, the sewer is untouched and avoided by the members of her family?
Navajo Spider Woman Ceremonial Basket - Fannie King (#92)
$625.00
Artist: Fannie King
12 1/2" x 2" deep
Rounds: 24
Fannie King loves to weave, and, when it comes to basketry, she is amazing. This weaving is graced with an old design that pays tribute to Spider Woman and Spider Man. Spider Woman taught the Navajo their weaving skills and Spider Man provided necessary tools to do the work. Fannie learned her craft from her mother's family and took that training seriously; she really gets the job done. For exceptionally clean and symmetrical basket weaving you need look no further than Fannie King.
About the artist:
Related legends:
Spider Woman
"Spider Woman instructed the Navajo women how to weave on a loom which Spider Man told them how to make. The crosspoles were made of sky and earth cords, the warp sticks of sun rays, the healds of rock crystal and sheet lightning. The batten was a sun halo, white shell made the comb. There were four spindles: one a stick of zigzag lightning with a whorl of cannel coal; one a stick of flash lightning with a whorl of turquoise; a third had a stick of sheet lightning with a whorl of abalone; a rain streamer formed the stick of the fourth, and its whorl was white shell."? More about this legend
Navajo Ceremonial Baskets
The Navajo wedding basket also reflects many values of traditional life and so often contains all six sacred mountains, including Huerfano and Gobernador Knob, though the size of the basket may determine the numher of mountains in the design. The center spot in the basket represents the beginning of this world, where the Navajo people emerged from a reed? More about this legend
Navajo After Midnight Basket - Lorraine Black (#250)
$750.00
Artist: Lorraine Black
12 1/2" x 1 1/4" deep
Rounds: 23
About the artist:
Inspired by dreams, Lorraine Black's skills have literally elevated basket weaving to new dimensions. Lorraine Black's infectious laugh belies the serious magic her hands conjure up when weaving a basket. Unprecedented in her ideas, Lorraine's baskets are innovative and beautiful. Many of them make good use of texture through over-stitching and the addition of objects such as flint arrowheads or horsehair.
Related legends:
War/Squaw Dance
he so called war dance, extensively in vogue with the Navaho today, originated with the mother of the Slayer of Monsters and the Child of Water. For, it is said, when they had slain the monster yeitso, they carried his scalp as a trophy and hung it on a tree previous to reporting to their mother. While relating to her of the encounter with the monster they swooned and lay unconscious, whereupon, it is said, their mother prepared a concoction from herbs struck by lightning, sprinkled them with it, and shot a spruce and pine arrow over their bodies, thus reviving them? More about this legend
Navajo 1960's Ceremonial Basket (#14)
$850.00
Navajo Baskets
13 3/4" x 2 1/2" deep
Rounds: 22
Classic Navajo wedding baskets have become highly prized and difficult to acquire. At Twin Rocks Trading Post, however, we have located a nice stash of them for distribution to our customers. According to Navajo legend, placing your wealth in these weavings will ensure success and richness. This nice specimen will surely help with the task. Heck, I feel wealthier already.
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.
Related legends:
Navajo Ceremonial Baskets
The Navajo wedding basket also reflects many values of traditional life and so often contains all six sacred mountains, including Huerfano and Gobernador Knob, though the size of the basket may determine the numher of mountains in the design. The center spot in the basket represents the beginning of this world, where the Navajo people emerged from a reed? More about this legend
Navajo Crystal Handspun and 100% Vegetal Dye Rug (#48)
$950.00
Navajo Rug
59" x 29 1/2"
This wonderful rug from the Stephen Zolock collection is made with vegetal dyes and woven from hand-spun wool. Woven in the 1960s, this weaving is subtle and well made.
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.
Related legends:
Crystals
First Man burned a crystal for a fire. The crystal belonged to the male and was the symbol of the mind and of clear seeing. When First Man burned it, it was the mind's awakening? More about this legend
Weaving
After the medicine woman told the people about the prayersticks she told them that there was a place in the underworld where two rivers crossed. It was called ni tqin'kae tsosi, fine fiber cotton (Indian hemp). There were two persons who brought the seed of that plant, they were spiders. They said that the people were to use the plant instead of skins for their clothing. So this seed was planted in the earth? More about this legend
Late 1900's Karok Basketry Hat w/ Obsidian Blade Design (#03)
$1,195.00
Baskets
7" x 4"
In Northern California, Karok weavers were known for their ceremonial basket hats. This particular weaving dates from around 1900 and features an obsidian blade design. Hazel branches are used for the foundation while bear grass, maidenhair fern woodwardia are used to create the design. Steve and Georgiana Simpson collected this basket.
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.
Hopi Early Morning Coil Basket (#04)
$1,250.00
12 1/2"
Hopi basket makers make some of the finest basketry in North America. Many Puebloan people no longer weave baskets, but a select few Hopi women continue this centuries-old tradition. This weaving of a Hopi Sun Face Katsina is skillfully arranged and reflects upon symbolism and tradition in Hopi design. Each Hopi basket is linked to aspects of Hopi life, past and present. In particular, basketry designs reflect aspects of Hopi religion and agriculture. For the Hopi, just as the basket's fibers are woven together, so are all the pieces of Hopi culture: none is unrelated to another.
Related legends:
Holy Ones
The meaning of the word hashch'e (Holy Ones) as employed in the names of some of the gods is not generally known. Moreover, it is not generally made public by the knowing ones who guard its meaning as a secret. Hashch'eltqii, the Talking God of the east, is the child of hayolkhal hastqin and hayolkhal esdza, to the Dawn Man and Woman? More about this legend
Navajo Eclipse Basket Set - Lorraine Black (#237)
$1,250.00
Artist: Lorraine Black
Navajo Baskets
13" x 1 3/4" deep
Rounds: 23
Lorraine Black has had stars in her eyes lately. She has therefore conceived of an eclipse set that will set you reeling. This positive/negative, sun/moon set is like nothing we have espied. Lorraine, always up for a challenge, has determined to make something based in tradition but completely new. Wow, that’s all we have to say, and we’re stickin’ to it.
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.
About the artist:
Inspired by dreams, Lorraine Black's skills have literally elevated basket weaving to new dimensions. Lorraine Black's infectious laugh belies the serious magic her hands conjure up when weaving a basket. Unprecedented in her ideas, Lorraine's baskets are innovative and beautiful. Many of them make good use of texture through over-stitching and the addition of objects such as flint arrowheads or horsehair.
Related legends:
Navajo Basketry
Basketry is a woman's industry, which is also pursued by the nadle (he changes), hermaphrodites, or men skilled in the arts and industries of both men and women. Basketry, however, is not classified with textile fabrics (yistl'o), but with sewing (nalkhad). It is of interest also that, while the basket is in progress, the sewer is untouched and avoided by the members of her family?
Navajo Going with the Flow Basket - Joann Johnson (#120)
$1,625.00
Artist: Joann Johnson
15" x 2 1/2" deep
Rounds: 28
"Going with the Flow," is the name of Joann Johnson's latest basket. Joann tells us she got the idea from wandering about the edge of Monument Valley. She was looking for wayward sheep and admiring her surroundings when the idea struck her. Once in her head, Joann had to put it into a basket or, as she said, "Otherwise, it would drive me crazy."
About the artist:
A fourth generation Navajo basket weaver, Joann Johnson has a passionate awareness of her heritage and history. Born and raised in Monument Valley, she has spent her life in the Navajo heartland, surrounded by the sacred mountains and monuments that tell the stories of her people's past.
Related legends:
Navajo Basketry
Basketry is a woman's industry, which is also pursued by the nadle (he changes), hermaphrodites, or men skilled in the arts and industries of both men and women. Basketry, however, is not classified with textile fabrics (yistl'o), but with sewing (nalkhad). It is of interest also that, while the basket is in progress, the sewer is untouched and avoided by the members of her family?
Navajo Yei-be-chei Dancers Basket - Peggy Rock Black (#387)
$1,750.00
Artist: Peggy Rock Black
Navajo Baskets
17" x 2 3/4" deep
Rounds: 28
Peggy Rock Black has woven a basket portraying beings put upon this earth to counter sickness and disease. A gift of Talking God, the Yei-be-chei are called into action by medicine men familiar with the required ceremonies and songs. Patients ailing in mind or body can be brought back into harmony by these powerful practitioners. Peggy has placed a rainbow around her helpful healers to protect them from evil and negativity. The world is a better place due to the gift of Talking God and the homage paid to the big guy by the likes of Peggy Rock Black.
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.
About the artist:
One of the famous Douglas Mesa basket weavers, there wasn't much question about what Peggy Rock Black would choose to pursue in life. She was born into a family of weavers before she married into an equally talented family of weavers.
Related legends:
Ritual Ceremony
Various kinds of clay are used by the Navaho ceremonially and otherwise. Dlesh, white clay, is used as spice with foods, or in painting the masks. The fire dancers paint their bodies with it on the night of the performance? More about this legend
Navajo Doodle Basket - Joann Johnson (#96)
$1,875.00
Artist: Joann Johnson
Navajo Baskets
15 1/2" x 2 3/4" deep
Rounds: 27
Joann Johnson said that this basket started out as; "A doodle in my mind." How she transferred that not so simple thought from her consciousness into and onto this basket is a quality few can master. Finely woven and creatively expressive, this weaving ranks in the top 10 percent of the art of Navajo basketry. The symmetry is spot on and there is even a spirit line worked into the pattern to release negativity and allow access to positive energy. It seems Joann can doodle with the best of them.
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.
About the artist:
A fourth generation Navajo basket weaver, Joann Johnson has a passionate awareness of her heritage and history. Born and raised in Monument Valley, she has spent her life in the Navajo heartland, surrounded by the sacred mountains and monuments that tell the stories of her people's past.
See full biography
Related legends:
Navajo Basketry
Basketry is a woman's industry, which is also pursued by the nadle (he changes), hermaphrodites, or men skilled in the arts and industries of both men and women. Basketry, however, is not classified with textile fabrics (yistl'o), but with sewing (nalkhad). It is of interest also that, while the basket is in progress, the sewer is untouched and avoided by the members of her family?
Navajo 19 Feathers Basket - Elsie Holiday (#400)
$1,875.00
Artist: Elsie Holiday
Navajo Basket
14 1/2" x 2" deep
Rounds: 24
It is said that birds of a feather flock together, that people with the same tendencies hang together. Elsie Holiday's baskets have that effect on folks, they want to be near her feather art. Elsie tells us that feathers keep her in constant contact with the higher powers and help her communicate with the Holy People. We feel Elsie's basketry is divinely inspired, so her connectivity must be effective.
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.
About the artist:
Considered one of the best Navajo basket weavers, Elsie Stone Holiday married into the famed Douglas Mesa family of weavers. Weaving baskets has become almost an addiction for her. "When I go two or three days without weaving I get anxious to get started again," she says. She weaves 12 hours a day, 5 days a week. "Sometimes I think, 'How long can this last?'", she wistfully states, but for now she is content with her art, finding immense satisfaction in creating premier quality baskets.
Related legends:
Feathers
Feather: As a common denominator the feather figures imortantly in Native American myth, method, and tribal practice. The feather is a metaphor for flight, a messenger to the spirit world. Feathers are used decoratively, as prayer symbols, and as designs of power. Attached to an arrow, the feather becomes the universal emblem of the hunt, of flight, of finding the mark? More about this legend
Navajo Butterfly Basket - Elsie Holiday (#406)
$1,875.00
Artist: Elsie Holiday
Navajo Basket
13" x 14 1/2" x 3 1/2" deep
Rounds: 21
Elsie Holiday loves butterflies and also loves to weave baskets. Put these two passions together and this is what you get, a contemporary Navajo basket that knocks your socks off. What a thing of beauty!
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.
About the artist:
Considered one of the best Navajo basket weavers, Elsie Stone Holiday married into the famed Douglas Mesa family of weavers. Weaving baskets has become almost an addiction for her. "When I go two or three days without weaving I get anxious to get started again," she says. She weaves 12 hours a day, 5 days a week. "Sometimes I think, 'How long can this last?'", she wistfully states, but for now she is content with her art, finding immense satisfaction in creating premier quality baskets.
Related legends:
Butterfly in Navajo Traditional Stories
Butterfly: Due to the natural beauty of its wings, Butterfly is often considered vain. Yet, in Navajo mythology, Butterfly brings the sacred flint to the hooves of the horse. In the legend of the diety, Butterfly Boy was cured of his vanity by being lightning struck with the axe of Rain Boy. After that, his head opened up and out of it came the butterflies of the world. The perishable dust of Butterfly's wings is sometimes thought to prove that such beauty is usually not durable.
Navajo Ceremonial Eagle Basket - Peggy Black (#411)
$1,875.00
Artist: Peggy Black
16 1/2" x 2 3/4" deep
Rounds: 30
Peggy Rock Black has taken the Navajo ceremonial basket design and embraced it with an eagle motif. The ceremonial pattern is the embodiment of the Navajo universe, and the eagle guards, protects, and is a bridge for communication between humans and the Holy People. On the wings of the eagle are four levels of emergence and duality symbols. In a nutshell Peggy is recognizing the past, present and future of the Navajo people, all upon a woven storyboard.
About the artist:
One of the famous Douglas Mesa basket weavers, there wasn't much question about what Peggy Rock Black would choose to pursue in life. She was born into a family of weavers before she married into an equally talented family of weavers.
Related legends:
Eagle
Of all birds in Native American mythology, the eagle is the most important as symbol, sacrificial / ceremonial presence, and ultimate predator/ warrior. The solitary mystery and power of the eagle as perceived by the Indian was immediately grasped by the emerging nation of the United States, and "borrowed" for its logo. More about this legend
Navajo Patriotic Butterfly Basket - Elsie Holiday (#070)
$1,900.00
Artist: Elsie Holiday
Navajo Baskets
Patriotic Butterfly
15"
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.
About the artist:
Considered one of the best Navajo basket weavers, Elsie Stone Holiday married into the famed Douglas Mesa family of weavers. Weaving baskets has become almost an addiction for her. "When I go two or three days without weaving I get anxious to get started again," she says. She weaves 12 hours a day, 5 days a week. "Sometimes I think, 'How long can this last?'", she wistfully states, but for now she is content with her art, finding immense satisfaction in creating premier quality baskets.
Related legends:
Butterfly in Navajo Traditional Stories
Butterfly: Due to the natural beauty of its wings, Butterfly is often considered vain. Yet, in Navajo mythology, Butterfly brings the sacred flint to the hooves of the horse. In the legend of the diety, Butterfly Boy was cured of his vanity by being lightning struck with the axe of Rain Boy. After that, his head opened up and out of it came the butterflies of the world. The perishable dust of Butterfly's wings is sometimes thought to prove that such beauty is usually not durable.
Weaving
After the medicine woman told the people about the prayersticks she told them that there was a place in the underworld where two rivers crossed. It was called ni tqin'kae tsosi, fine fiber cotton (Indian hemp). There were two persons who brought the seed of that plant, they were spiders. They said that the people were to use the plant instead of skins for their clothing. So this seed was planted in the earth? More about this legend
Navajo From The Beginning Basket - Elsie Holiday (#421)
$1,950.00
Artist: Elsie Holiday
14 1/2" x 2" deep
Rounds: 33
This wonderfully stark black and patina aged basket was woven approximately 25 years ago. It is from the Mooney collection, and had comfortably lived in his home in New York before making a temporary home here it Bluff, Utah. At least we hope its temporary. It is an early Elsie Holiday creation, which shows she has been making stellar baskets for a long, long time. We are glad to have it back at Twin Rocks Trading Post.
About the artist:
Considered one of the best Navajo basket weavers, Elsie Stone Holiday married into the famed Douglas Mesa family of weavers. Weaving baskets has become almost an addiction for her. "When I go two or three days without weaving I get anxious to get started again," she says. She weaves 12 hours a day, 5 days a week. "Sometimes I think, 'How long can this last?'", she wistfully states, but for now she is content with her art, finding immense satisfaction in creating premier quality baskets.
Related legends:
Dine Emergence/Creation
This is a story told by the Navajo people by word of mouth to the young and old. The Navajo believe there are Five Worlds. We are presently in the fifth world. The first world was a small, dark and water filled world. It was known as the Red World where the flying insects were the first and only people. The second world was blue with the air. The spirit people here were swallows? More about this legend
Navajo Pictorial Basket - Lorraine Black (#225)
$1,995.00
Artist: Lorraine Black
Navajo Baskets
16 1/2" x 2 1/2" deep
Rounds: 30
Lorraine Black has proven herself to be one of the best Navajo basket weavers of all time. Through her art, Lorraine is recognized for her interpretations of Navajo family life and ceremony. This particular basket portrays a typical lifestyle scene that could be found almost anywhere in Navajoland. Transportation is a big issue on the Rez, so horses and vehicles are well represented. Social interaction and a healthy herd of sheep are also important to the people. For a storyboard of everyday life in Dinetah, one needs to look to Lorraine for inspiration.
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.
About the artist:
Inspired by dreams, Lorraine Black's skills have literally elevated basket weaving to new dimensions. Lorraine Black's infectious laugh belies the serious magic her hands conjure up when weaving a basket. Unprecedented in her ideas, Lorraine's baskets are innovative and beautiful. Many of them make good use of texture through over-stitching and the addition of objects such as flint arrowheads or horsehair.
Related legends:
Bear
The bear was the next chief to be called. He was given a name but he was not satisfied. He became so angry that First Man used the word "shash" to quiet him. The bear repeated it four times, and he said that it had a strange sound, and when one said it aloud one had and awesome feeling. So he went off well content that "shash" should be his name.
Navajo Memorial Day Basket - Joann Johnson (#111)
$1,995.00
Artist: Joann Johnson
Navajo Baskets
16" x 2 1/4" deep
Rounds: 30
The manner in which Navajo basket weaver, Joann Johnson, weaves light and color into her textiles is, simply, amazing. We believe Joann sees the world in a whole different manner than anyone else. The cool thing about that is she can share her vision with the rest of us through her baskets. Stand back and take a look, then tell us if your perspective is not positively affected.
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.
About the artist:
A fourth generation Navajo basket weaver, Joann Johnson has a passionate awareness of her heritage and history. Born and raised in Monument Valley, she has spent her life in the Navajo heartland, surrounded by the sacred mountains and monuments that tell the stories of her people's past.
Related legends:
Navajo Basketry
Basketry is a woman's industry, which is also pursued by the nadle (he changes), hermaphrodites, or men skilled in the arts and industries of both men and women. Basketry, however, is not classified with textile fabrics (yistl'o), but with sewing (nalkhad). It is of interest also that, while the basket is in progress, the sewer is untouched and avoided by the members of her family?
Wickerwork
The carrying basket is even less frequently seen than the water jar. tsizis (tsi, hair, and zis, or azis, a bag or pouch, from the mode of carrying it over the hair of the forehead) is used at present for gathering the hashkan, or yucca fruit, for syrup. The baskets are plaited of willow twigs much after the style of our own baskets, but have neither handle nor finished rim? More about this legend
Navajo Eagle Feathers Basket - Elsie Holiday (#417)
$1,995.00
Artist: Elsie Holiday
18" x 2 1/2" deep
Rounds: 27
Elsie Stone Holiday tells us that feathers keep her in constant contact with the higher powers and help her communicate with the Holy People. She can often be found sitting in front of a small smudge fire, waving a feather through the smoke and sending-up prayers. Elsie is a visionary artist with roots of tradition in her soul. Elsie's basket is inspired by her beloved culture, which is evident in her weave.
About the artist:
Considered one of the best Navajo basket weavers, Elsie Stone Holiday married into the famed Douglas Mesa family of weavers. Weaving baskets has become almost an addiction for her. "When I go two or three days without weaving I get anxious to get started again," she says. She weaves 12 hours a day, 5 days a week. "Sometimes I think, 'How long can this last?'", she wistfully states, but for now she is content with her art, finding immense satisfaction in creating premier quality baskets.
Related legends:
Feathers
Feather: As a common denominator the feather figures importantly in Native American myth, method, and tribal practice. The feather is a metaphor for flight, a messenger to the spirit world. Feathers are used decoratively, as prayer symbols, and as designs of power. Attached to an arrow, the feather becomes the universal emblem of the hunt, of flight, of finding the mark? More about this legend
Navajo Modern Twin Rocks "Journey" Rug - Eleanor Yazzie (#042)
$2,050.00
Artist: Eleanor Yazzie
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.
About the artist:
Eleanor was born in 1963 at Keams Canyon, Arizona to Joe and Ella Benally. She has two sisters and five brothers. When visiting her grandmother on her mother's side who lived at Smoke Signal, she would watch her weave. Her grandmother, Bah Begay, especially loved weaving storm pattern rugs. Eleanor helped her grandmother who, at that time, made handspun rugs. Eleanor learned every step from shearing the sheep to washing and dyeing the wool to spinning the yarn. Because her grandmother especially loved the storm pattern weavings, this style was the first type woven by Eleanor. Her mastery of complex geometrics and diagonal lines comes from this experience in weaving the storm pattern.
See full biographyRelated legends:
Weaving
After the medicine woman told the people about the prayersticks she told them that there was a place in the underworld where two rivers crossed. It was called ni tqin'kae tsosi, fine fiber cotton (Indian hemp). There were two persons who brought the seed of that plant, they were spiders. They said that the people were to use the plant instead of skins for their clothing. So this seed was planted in the earth? More about this legend
Navajo Dragonfly Basket - Elsie Holiday (#404)
$2,495.00
Artist: Elsie Holiday
Navajo Basket
17" x 3" deep
Rounds: 27
If you are ever lost, lonely and thirsty in the high desert country of the Great American Southwest, find yourself a dragonfly. This is what a Navajo might do, because dragonflies symbolize life by way of water. Follow a dragonfly home and he will show you a way to survive. Elsie Holiday is well aware of the attributes this zippity-doo-daa bug represents, and she wanted to express the idea through her art. Elsie is an amazing weaver; her creativity and quality of weave are unmatched. Do yourself a favor, have a cool drink of water and entertain yourself with a dragonfly.
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.
About the artist:
Considered one of the best Navajo basket weavers, Elsie Stone Holiday married into the famed Douglas Mesa family of weavers. Weaving baskets has become almost an addiction for her. "When I go two or three days without weaving I get anxious to get started again," she says. She weaves 12 hours a day, 5 days a week. "Sometimes I think, 'How long can this last?'", she wistfully states, but for now she is content with her art, finding immense satisfaction in creating premier quality baskets.
Related legends:
Water Creatures
A set of four creatures associated with water and rainfall are the main themes of two of the reproductions of Beautyway sandpaintings. These are White Water Monster, Blue Thunder, Big Otter, and variegated (or Many-colored) Water Monster ("Cloud Monster," "Land Monster"). White Water Monster lives underground, a denizen of the lower worlds, and spurts up springs, wells, and streams ("something like a whale")? More about this legend
Navajo Red Canyon Basket - Chris Johnson (#45)
$2,495.00
Artist: Chris Johnson
Navajo Basket
16 3/4" x 18 1/2" x 2" deep
Rounds: 32
Red Canyon is the latest basket by Navajo weaver Chris Johnson. As always, his work is tight and fine. The abstract design of this weaving speaks of the canyons of his homeland and the skills he has developed over many long years. You can never go wrong collecting Chris’ basketry.
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.
About the artist:
Related legends:
Wickerwork
The carrying basket is even less frequently seen than the water jar. tsizis (tsi, hair, and zis, or azis, a bag or pouch, from the mode of carrying it over the hair of the forehead) is used at present for gathering the hashkan, or yucca fruit, for syrup. The baskets are plaited of willow twigs much after the style of our own baskets, but have neither handle nor finished rim? More about this legend
Navajo Sky People Basket - Lorraine Black (#244)
$2,495.00
Artist: Lorraine Black
18 1/2" x 3" deep
Rounds: 33
Lorraine Black likes sand painting motifs and often incorporates them into her basketry. Maybe that is because of their healing powers, or maybe it’s because of the fine detail associated with this curative medicine. In either case, both these elements are apparent in her Sky People basket. Fine detail combined with careful weaving makes this an exceptionally interesting basket.
About the artist:
Inspired by dreams, Lorraine Black's skills have literally elevated basket weaving to new dimensions. Lorraine Black's infectious laugh belies the serious magic her hands conjure up when weaving a basket. Unprecedented in her ideas, Lorraine's baskets are innovative and beautiful. Many of them make good use of texture through over-stitching and the addition of objects such as flint arrowheads or horsehair.
Related legends:
Navajo Basketry
Basketry is a woman's industry, which is also pursued by the nadle (he changes), hermaphrodites, or men skilled in the arts and industries of both men and women. Basketry, however, is not classified with textile fabrics (yistl'o), but with sewing (nalkhad). It is of interest also that, while the basket is in progress, the sewer is untouched and avoided by the members of her family?
Navajo Stained Glass Window Basket - Joann Johnson (#117)
$2,495.00
Artist: Joann Johnson
17 1/2" x 3 1/2"
Rounds: 32
Joann Johnson is highly adept at representing variations of light and color through her art of basketry. Years ago Joann was gifted a Kaleidoscope and the rest, as they say, is history. Joann also lives on the eastern edge of Monument Valley so visions of diffused and deflected light are not uncommon in her world. To view Joann's basket is to witness the dawn, dusk and versions of stained glass through her eyes.
About the artist:
A fourth generation Navajo basket weaver, Joann Johnson has a passionate awareness of her heritage and history. Born and raised in Monument Valley, she has spent her life in the Navajo heartland, surrounded by the sacred mountains and monuments that tell the stories of her people's past.
Related legends:
Wickerwork
The carrying basket is even less frequently seen than the water jar. tsizis (tsi, hair, and zis, or azis, a bag or pouch, from the mode of carrying it over the hair of the forehead) is used at present for gathering the hashkan, or yucca fruit, for syrup. The baskets are plaited of willow twigs much after the style of our own baskets, but have neither handle nor finished rim? More about this legend
Navajo Elder Tree Four Seasons Basket - Elsie Holiday (#426)
$2,495.00
Artist: Elsie Holiday
16" x 2 3/8" deep
Rounds: 27
Winter, spring, summer and fall, that just about covers it all. Elsie Holiday has woven a basket that embraces the four seasons in grand fashion. She is a master artist when it comes to basketry. Her quality of stitch, symmetry and design make her one of the best weavers ever. In the Navajo culture, Changing Woman (aka Mother Earth) controls the seasons and all green growing things. The Tree of Life symbolizes the Native American connection to the past, personal progress and the embracing, cultivating nature of tradition and culture. There is a whole lot of meaning woven into this basket.
About the artist:
Considered one of the best Navajo basket weavers, Elsie Stone Holiday married into the famed Douglas Mesa family of weavers. Weaving baskets has become almost an addiction for her. "When I go two or three days without weaving I get anxious to get started again," she says. She weaves 12 hours a day, 5 days a week. "Sometimes I think, 'How long can this last?'", she wistfully states, but for now she is content with her art, finding immense satisfaction in creating premier quality baskets.
Related legends:
Seasons & Months
The traditional Navajo year follows the rhythm of the seasons as natural, cosmological order directs specific activities associated with each month for all forms of life on earth. The year begins with Ghaaji' (October), which marks the "dividing of the seasons": hai not only means "winter" but also means "the parting of the seasons," signifying the division between winter and summer? More about this legend
Navajo Interlocken Basket - Elsie Holiday (#117)
$2,500.00
Artist: Elsie Holiday
Navajo Basket
Interlocken
16"
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.
About the artist:
Considered one of the best Navajo basket weavers, Elsie Stone Holiday married into the famed Douglas Mesa family of weavers. Weaving baskets has become almost an addiction for her. "When I go two or three days without weaving I get anxious to get started again," she says. She weaves 12 hours a day, 5 days a week. "Sometimes I think, 'How long can this last?'", she wistfully states, but for now she is content with her art, finding immense satisfaction in creating premier quality baskets.
Related legends:
Navajo Basketry
Basketry is a woman's industry, which is also pursued by the nadle (he changes), hermaphrodites, or men skilled in the arts and industries of both men and women. Basketry, however, is not classified with textile fabrics (yistl'o), but with sewing (nalkhad). It is of interest also that, while the basket is in progress, the sewer is untouched and avoided by the members of her family?
Navajo Patriotic Symbolism Pictorial Basket - Peggy Black (#299)
$2,500.00
Artist: Peggy Black
Navajo Baskets
18 1/2" x 3 1/2" deep
Rounds: 33
Peggy Rock Black's Collage basket is a whole lot of fun and fantasy all wrapped-up in one finely woven package. Through the creative process, Peggy instructs us how First Man and Coyote placed the constellations and Milky Way in the heavens. She introduces us to the riders of the Enemy Way, the Home of the Buffalo People, sacred ceremony, balance, harmony and much, much more. Through the art of Navajo basketry, Peggy uses pictorial images as a way of promoting tradition and culture.
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.
About the artist:
One of the famous Douglas Mesa basket weavers, there wasn't much question about what Peggy Rock Black would choose to pursue in life. She was born into a family of weavers before she married into an equally talented family of weavers.
Related legends:
Horse
Johano-ai starts each day from his hogan, in the east, and rides across the skies to his hogan in the west, carrying the shining golden disk, the sun. He has five horses a horse of turquoise, a horse of white shell, a horse of pearl shell, a horse of red shell, and a horse of coal? More about this legend
People/Diversity
Big Star makes peace between them with instructions that neither should return to the wife and the admonition that there will always be different kinds of people in the world snake, coyote, star people and that "they must make the best of it."? More about this legend
Symbolism
The hoop ceremonies of the Navajo have been compared by anthropologists to mandalas, Paleolithic sunwheels, or "magic circles." Spruce, willow, and other hoops represent the four passages of man through the four elemental worlds. They are also symbolic of the four directions, the four sacred mountains, the four-cornered construct of the human family mother, father, son, daughter and the four stages of human life? More about this legend
Navajo Mother Earth/Father Sky Basket - Lorraine Black (#229)
$2,500.00
Artist: Lorraine Black
Navajo Baskets
19" x 3" deep
Rounds: 33
Mother Earth and Father Sky are the two most powerful and influential deities in Navajo culture. Lorraine Yazzie Black has chosen to depict this wondrous couple in her culturally based weaving. Mother Earth is depicted in natural tones, with sacred plants upon her breast and rainbow bars placed about her being. Navajo deities travel on rainbows, so they are prevalent in this basket. Father Sky is decorated with star patterns and an image of the Moon, his alternate ego. Lorraine has finished her weaving with an attractive herringbone stitch. This dynamic duo suit each other well, the balance is complete.
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.
About the artist:
Inspired by dreams, Lorraine Black's skills have literally elevated basket weaving to new dimensions. Lorraine Black's infectious laugh belies the serious magic her hands conjure up when weaving a basket. Unprecedented in her ideas, Lorraine's baskets are innovative and beautiful. Many of them make good use of texture through over-stitching and the addition of objects such as flint arrowheads or horsehair.
See full biography
Related legends:
Mother Earth, Father Sky
I have chosen to focus on the "Mother Earth, Father Sky" sandpainting from the Male Shootingway partly because it presents the most detailed depiction of the Navajo heavens of the sandpaintings used today. In addition, since this sandpainting can only be used on the final day of the ceremonial, it embodies the Navajo concept of increase through accumulation. Chanters consider this painting to be a particularly powerful one? More about this legend
Navajo Fun & Folk Basket - Peggy Black (#108)
$2,500.00
Artist: Peggy Black
Navajo Basket
22 1/2" x 3 3/4" deep
Rounds: 35
Navajo folk art has contributed a great deal to Southwest Native American art. Wanting to celebrate that tradition, several years ago Peggy Black created a basket depicting many of the symbols associated with the movement. Her basket has a turkey, two lamas, two chickens and two people riding a horse. With an aged patina on the front and original color on the back you could say its aged well, something we can all hope for.
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.
About the artist:
One of the famous Douglas Mesa basket weavers, there wasn't much question about what Peggy Rock Black would choose to pursue in life. She was born into a family of weavers before she married into an equally talented family of weavers.
Related legends:
Turkey
On this trip his own or his niece's pet turkey accompanies him, following the log along the river bank, Unknown to the hero, the Supernaturals provide the turkey with all kinds of seeds. During the preparations the turkey is troubled, restless, and refuses to eat because he knows the thoughts in his master's mind. The hero instructs the turkey to follow the log. Pg. 167, Plume Way. More about this legend
Navajo At the Sing Basket - Lorraine Black (#251)
$2,500.00
Artist: Lorraine Black
18 3/8" x 2 1/2" deep
Rounds: 33
"At the sing," is a representation of the Mountain Chant ceremony practiced by Navajo people. It is a traditional ceremonial activity based on purging negativity from the body and mind. The dance is conducted inside a green circle of branches embraced by the Holy People. Participants sing and sway around a large, hot fire. The Mountain Chant is one of the few remaining ceremonies still being practiced in Navajo-land and it is taken seriously. Lorraine Black is an excellent weaver, and this basket is an exceptional example of her highly developed skill set.
About the artist:
Inspired by dreams, Lorraine Black's skills have literally elevated basket weaving to new dimensions. Lorraine Black's infectious laugh belies the serious magic her hands conjure up when weaving a basket. Unprecedented in her ideas, Lorraine's baskets are innovative and beautiful. Many of them make good use of texture through over-stitching and the addition of objects such as flint arrowheads or horsehair.
Related legends:
Tsilkehji - Mountain Chant
There were twelve men and two women belonging to one family called N'Dohtet-leh and whose home was at Taylin (Horse Lake in the Apache country); they rode on sun dogs killing the cave dwellers in that region while the two women stayed at Taylin. Early one morning they came to Kintyel near Kayenta and found the cave dwellers holding the Eagle ceremony, and the N'Dohtet-leh killed all the Eagle dancers? More about this legend
Navajo Sacred Animals Basket - Peggy Black (#384)
$2,700.00
Artist: Peggy Black
Navajo Baskets
20 1/2" x 3" deep
Rounds: 35
Peggy Rock Black has woven a most interesting and graphically attractive basket. The central colors represent home fires and the emergence or awakening of consciousness. There is a blue ring for sacred waters and horse heads over that which portrays freedom and independence. The grace and majesty of the Eagle encircle and protect all that is cherished and sacred. A rainbow wraps around the outside edge of the basket adding one extra layer of protection. Beautiful!
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.
About the artist:
One of the famous Douglas Mesa basket weavers, there wasn't much question about what Peggy Rock Black would choose to pursue in life. She was born into a family of weavers before she married into an equally talented family of weavers.
See full biography | See all items by Peggy Black
Related legends:
Eagle
Of all birds in Native American mythology, the eagle is the most important as symbol, sacrificial / ceremonial presence, and ultimate predator/ warrior. The solitary mystery and power of the eagle as perceived by the Indian was immediately grasped by the emerging nation of the United States, and "borrowed" for its logo. More about this legend
Horse
Johano-ai starts each day from his hogan, in the east, and rides across the skies to his hogan in the west, carrying the shining golden disk, the sun. He has five horses a horse of turquoise, a horse of white shell, a horse of pearl shell, a horse of red shell, and a horse of coal? More about this legend
Navajo Star-light Star-bright Basket Set - Elsie Holiday (#084)
$2,750.00
Artist: Elsie Holiday
Navajo Baskets
12" x 3/4" deep
Rounds: 35
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.
About the artist:
Considered one of the best Navajo basket weavers, Elsie Stone Holiday married into the famed Douglas Mesa family of weavers. Weaving baskets has become almost an addiction for her. "When I go two or three days without weaving I get anxious to get started again," she says. She weaves 12 hours a day, 5 days a week. "Sometimes I think, 'How long can this last?'", she wistfully states, but for now she is content with her art, finding immense satisfaction in creating premier quality baskets.
Related legends:
Stars
The division of the year into twelve months may also have been superimposed on traditional Navajo concepts. This may be why only some of the months have specific constellations associated with them. Four of the months were said to have feather headdresses? More about this legend
Navajo Ceremonial Squash Blossom Basket - Peggy Black (#385)
$2,750.00
Artist: Peggy Black
Navajo Baskets
21" x 2 1/2" deep
Rounds: 34
Peggy Black likes to mix motifs. In this weaving, she has adorned the traditional ceremonial basket pattern with butterflies, Navajo couples and the five petal squash blossom design. Peggy often refers to these as collage baskets because of this symbolic blending.
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.
About the artist:
One of the famous Douglas Mesa basket weavers, there wasn't much question about what Peggy Rock Black would choose to pursue in life. She was born into a family of weavers before she married into an equally talented family of weavers.
Related legends:
Navajo Ceremonial Baskets
The Navajo wedding basket also reflects many values of traditional life and so often contains all six sacred mountains, including Huerfano and Gobernador Knob, though the size of the basket may determine the numher of mountains in the design. The center spot in the basket represents the beginning of this world, where the Navajo people emerged from a reed? More about this legend
Navajo Equine Colors Basket - Elsie Holiday (#394)
$2,750.00
Artist: Elsie Holiday
Navajo Basket
14" x 16 1/2" x 3" deep
Rounds: 23
Elsie Holiday has started the latest trend in Navajo basketry once again. With her animal face series, she has pioneered a new path, one that is at once innovative and spectacular. Leave it to Elsie to knock your socks off again. This Equine basket is a winner. It might even be the Triple Crown champion.
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.
About the artist:
Considered one of the best Navajo basket weavers, Elsie Stone Holiday married into the famed Douglas Mesa family of weavers. Weaving baskets has become almost an addiction for her. "When I go two or three days without weaving I get anxious to get started again," she says. She weaves 12 hours a day, 5 days a week. "Sometimes I think, 'How long can this last?'", she wistfully states, but for now she is content with her art, finding immense satisfaction in creating premier quality baskets.
Related legends:
Horse
Johano-ai starts each day from his hogan, in the east, and rides across the skies to his hogan in the west, carrying the shining golden disk, the sun. He has five horses a horse of turquoise, a horse of white shell, a horse of pearl shell, a horse of red shell, and a horse of coal? More about this legend
Navajo Butterfly Basket - Elsie Holiday (#412)
$2,750.00
Artist: Elsie Holiday
Navajo Basket
17" x 19" x 3" deep
Rounds: 25
Elsie Holiday started thinking about change earlier this month, and a butterfly basket is what evolved. This wonderful creature in fall colors is nothing less than stunning. Well, what else would we expect from Elsie.
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.
About the artist:
Considered one of the best Navajo basket weavers, Elsie Stone Holiday married into the famed Douglas Mesa family of weavers. Weaving baskets has become almost an addiction for her. "When I go two or three days without weaving I get anxious to get started again," she says. She weaves 12 hours a day, 5 days a week. "Sometimes I think, 'How long can this last?'", she wistfully states, but for now she is content with her art, finding immense satisfaction in creating premier quality baskets.
Related legends:
Butterfly in Navajo Traditional Stories
Butterfly: Due to the natural beauty of its wings, Butterfly is often considered vain. Yet, in Navajo mythology, Butterfly brings the sacred flint to the hooves of the horse. In the legend of the diety, Butterfly Boy was cured of his vanity by being lightning struck with the axe of Rain Boy. After that, his head opened up and out of it came the butterflies of the world. The perishable dust of Butterfly's wings is sometimes thought to prove that such beauty is usually not durable.
Navajo Ceremonial Horses Yei Basket - Lorraine Black (#247)
$2,750.00
Artist: Lorraine Black
21 1/2" x 3" deep
Rounds: 36
Lorraine Black is Navajo through and through, and her baskets reflect her deep knowledge of the culture. Horses to the Navajo represent a great deal of freedom and mobility, and she has made that clear in this masterpiece. In this representation of a rainbow Yei and his horses, she blends an extraordinary amount of symbolism into a nicely designed and executed basket.
About the artist:
Inspired by dreams, Lorraine Black's skills have literally elevated basket weaving to new dimensions. Lorraine Black's infectious laugh belies the serious magic her hands conjure up when weaving a basket. Unprecedented in her ideas, Lorraine's baskets are innovative and beautiful. Many of them make good use of texture through over-stitching and the addition of objects such as flint arrowheads or horsehair.
Related legends:
Horse
Johano-ai starts each day from his hogan, in the east, and rides across the skies to his hogan in the west, carrying the shining golden disk, the sun. He has five horses a horse of turquoise, a horse of white shell, a horse of pearl shell, a horse of red shell, and a horse of coal? More about this legend