Posted 9 years ago
BRussel
(50 items)
Hi, I purchased this at a garage sale in Lake Tahoe Ca. recently and the nice lady said her grandma got it back in the day and in was Local Washoe Tribe made. So i am wondering is that true, and can age be told by looking at the construction and if so I can I tell? If it is real what would be the condition of this item,Thanks for any info as knowledge is power and I have NO clue . I will also be posting another one with similar questions . Thanks again, BRussel
No, it isn't Washoe. Washoe basket are coiled, and made from willow.
This is a twined basket, made from hazel, from north western California, most likely Hupa. Several neighboring tribes make nearly identical baskets, so often, unless you know who the weaver was, it isn't possible to tell the difference. Hupa is usually a safe choice, though.
The damage on the rim will hurt the value. Collectors today are looking for pristine baskets, and anything less will not get top price.