Vintage Mid-Century Tohono O'odham (Papago) Hand-Coiled Lidded Basket

An authentic, well preserved mid-20th-century Native American lidded basket woven by a Tohono O'odham (formerly known as Papago) artisan from the Sonoran Desert region of Southern Arizona.

Hand-coiled over a traditional beargrass foundation, the basket is wrapped in sun-bleached soaptree yucca with rich, dark devil’s claw (martynia) forming the intricate designs. The fitted lid features a classic raised conical center knob framed by stylized birds in flight, while the lower body showcases a bold, repeating stepped geometric band. The interior and base clearly display the weaver's radial split-stitch technique, creating subtle spoke-like ribs that highlight true hand-crafted artistry.

Details & Measurements:

• Origin: Tohono O'odham Nation (Southern Arizona)
• Era: Mid-20th Century (circa 1940s–1960s)
• Materials: Yucca, Devil's Claw, Beargrass
• Diameter: 7.5 inches
• Height: 2.5 inches (base/body height, excluding the raised conical lid center)
• Stitch Gauge: Approx. 4–5 coils per inch / 7–8 stitches per inch

Condition:

Excellent condition. The weave is tight, sturdy, and well-shaped with no broken stitches, loose coils, or fiber loss. The natural yucca has developed a warm, even golden-tan patina over time with crisp contrast against the dark devil's claw design and no harsh sun fading.