Antique Salish Skokomish Native American Gathering Basket Pacific Northwest VG

Description

Antique Salish Skokomish Native American Harvest Basket Northwest. 15.5” x 8”
Antique Skokomish basket, Pacific Northwest, early 20thC, potentially earlier, the technique is mostly closed twining with a 2/2 twill plaiting start, materials used are cattail, cedar bark, and bear grass, the rows of bear grass across the top are woven in half twist overlay, this is weaving technology is very specific to
the Southern Pacific Northwest.
Split/ carry handle and standing base allowed gatherers to carry or place on ground when gathering. Skokomish of Puget Sound are subsistence farmers who commonly harvest shellfish and salmon. My guess is this basket was a gathering basket for berries - just a guess.
Condition - the main body is in surprisingly good condition for its age - the handle has some fraying (see photos), but is intact. Interior has some grass ends loose, but the weave is all intact. Patina and overall condition is beautiful for use and age. Piece does appear to have been used for collecting due to patina variation on the interior.