Southwestern Native American Coiled Basket

This is a globular, hand-woven coiled basket, characteristic of Southwestern Native American traditions such as the Apache or Pima tribes, likely dating from the early to mid-20th century. The basket features a robust, rounded body tapering toward a circular aperture. It is constructed using a coil method with likely a willow or sumac foundation, wrapped with split willow or yucca strands. The primary color is a natural aged cream/tan, accented by a bold geometric motif in dark brown or black, traditionally achieved using devil's claw. The pattern consists of vertical zigzag or lightning-bolt elements that wrap around the vessel. Measuring approximately 8-10 inches in diameter, the basket shows signs of high-quality craftsmanship with tight, consistent stitching. Condition-wise, the basket displays a warm, aged patina and some minor surface soiling. There are visible areas of stitch loss and breakage along the decorative bands, particularly where the dark fiber has brittle-aged or sustained friction. The rim appears mostly intact with a simple coiled finish. The overall form remains structurally sound without major deformation, making it a fine ethnographic specimen.