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Artworks
UNIDENTIFIED ARTIST, Probably ANISHINAABE (OJIBWE)
Lidded Quill Basket, 20th centuryquills, birchbark, and thread, 2.5 x 5 x 5 in (6.3 x 12.7 x 12.7 cm)
unsigned.LOT 43
ESTIMATE: $300 — $500
PRICE REALIZED: $312.00A skill acquired through spent time and patience, quillwork includes a variety of techniques including stitching, plaiting, loom weaving, wrapping, and bark insertion. As more and more works were being...A skill acquired through spent time and patience, quillwork includes a variety of techniques including stitching, plaiting, loom weaving, wrapping, and bark insertion. As more and more works were being created for a burgeoning trade in souvenirs, more and more artisans used the long, thin quills from the nape of the neck to the base of the tail of the porcupine. A lidded box was still a favoured item, and this lovely box is a beautiful example of layered simplicity. At a glance the design is merely some flowers on a white base, however the artist has carefully chosen and arranged the quills to utilize the natural darkness in the quill to add shadow and depth. The white background is carefully surrounded by a scalloped edge, and punctuated by a vibrant green stem that also uses the shading of the quills.