Returned to lender The Met accepts temporary loans of art both for short-term exhibitions and for long-term display in its galleries.
Micro-miniature one-rod coiled basket
Joseppa Pinto Dick Yokayo Pomo (Mendocino County, California)
Not on view
These tiny baskets had their genesis in the Pomo tradition of hanging objects from the hoop of a baby’s cradle basket, much like crib mobiles. The items often embodied the family’s wishes for the child’s future. Miniature coiled baskets were one type of "toy" often attached to girls’ cradles to inspire them to become talented weavers. The small twined carrying basket is typical of toys given to children for "playing house." Made-for-market miniatures became favorite novelty items among non-Native collectors; weavers profited because they required fewer materials and less time to make.
This artwork is meant to be viewed from right to left. Scroll left to view more.