"Z-twining" weaving style
These Tlingit spruce root baskets display "false embroidery", using maidenhair ferns and colored grasses in wave, blanket motif and stepped designs. False embroidery is the technique of wrapping horizontal weft strands in such a way that the design shows only on the basket exterior. The baskets represent a customary "Z-twining" weaving style, in which rows resemble ears of corn.
These baskets were given to Elise Hofstad Rastad, aunt of Oliver Hofstad, in exchange for chiropractic work she did in the 1920's, and donated to the Clausen Museum by Emily Merriam.
Museum hours are Monday to Friday, 1-5 pm and Saturdays, 12-5 pm
Information and photos for this column are provided by the Clausen Memorial Museum.
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