Wedding Basket

OriginUSA

MediumSumac

Dimensions11 1/4 diameter × 3 1/4 in. (28.6 × 8.3 cm)

ClassificationsDecorative Arts, Natural Substances

Credit LineGift of Dr. Glen Murphy. In the Farm House Museum Collection, Farm House Museum, University Museums, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa.

Object number78.16.9

Status

On view

Collections

CultureNative American - Diné (Navajo)

Label TextNavajo (Diné) Ceremonial Baskets, also known as Wedding Baskets, are often woven from willow or sumac and have a rich tradition in Navajo culture. Ceremonial baskets are used in weddings, healing rites, and other sacred practices. There are many interpretations for the baskets based on the context of their creation; however, Wedding Baskets generally represent “Hozhooji”. “Hozhooji”, or the Blessing Way, can be seen as a map or path to harmony and balance among all living creatures. This is illustrated through the “spirit line,” or the break in the design that serves as a pathway between the black and red elements, separating the white center, the “Sipapu,” and the exterior. While there are numerous ways to interpret the wedding baskets, one common interpretation associates white coils with birth and beginnings, while the black bands mark struggles and hardships in life. The red band, near the middle point of the black, represents the marriage and blood ties that occur in the middle of one’s life, offering a break from the turmoil and strife of life. It is crucial that the “spirit line” is never facing down and is always pointed East so that it can greet the morning. Navajo Ceremonial Baskets are still being made for practical use today and can feature many unique contemporary designs; yet, the traditional ideas and essential symbolism of the coils retain deep cultural ties and remain generally unchanged. https://nhmu.utah.edu/sites/default/files/attachments/The%20Navajo%20Ceremonial%20Basket%20Interpretations.pdf https://toh-atin.com/blog/navajo-ceremonial-and-wedding-baskets/

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