On the sun-baked mesas of northeastern Arizona, the Hopi people have crafted wicker trays for centuries, weaving not just materials but stories, spirituality, and community into every piece. Known as the “peaceful people” or Hopituh Shi-nu-mu, the Hopi reside in 12 villages across First, Second, and Third Mesas on Black Mesa, with Third Mesa being the heart of wicker basketry. These vibrant trays, often called plaques or shallow baskets, are more than functional objects—they are sacred symbols of Hopi life, used in ceremonies, daily tasks, and as cherished art forms.

A new acquistion – a collection of colorful pictorial Hopi wicker basket trays, most are from the 1930s-1950s.

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