Apache Tus Pitch-Coated Lidded Basket With Horsehair Handles, C. 1940–1950

Details

Description

A handwoven Apache tus with a rounded body, narrow neck, and fitted woven lid. A horsehair loop tops the lid, … Read more A handwoven Apache tus with a rounded body, narrow neck, and fitted woven lid. A horsehair loop tops the lid, with braided horsehair handles at the sides. Pine pitch is visible within the neck and among the woven fibers. The surviving lid is an especially uncommon feature.

Apache makers used materials including willow shoots and sumac for basket vessels, often applying pine or piñon pitch to make water vessels watertight. The specific plant fiber used in this tus has not been identified.

Originally purchased from a well-known gallery in Sedona, Arizona. The gallery confirmed its Apache origin and circa 1940–1950 date in email correspondence. Weaver unknown.

Dimensions: Approximately 13″ H × 12″ at widest.
Condition: Very good vintage condition, with age-related variation in color and pitch. No loose or broken fibers. See less