Bear's Ears Plaited Tray
Artist/Culture
Chitimacha
Date1900–1910
Mediumwoven and dyed plant material
Dimensions22.9 x 21.6 cm (9 x 8 1/2 in.)
ClassificationsCanework
Credit LineGift of David Hale Fanning
Terms
Object number1922.129
DescriptionPlaited tray, rectangular with upturned sides, black and red design known as "bear's ears ring."Label TextPortraiture was not part of many Indigenous peoples' cultural traditions. Instead, they used other art forms to express creativity and community affiliations. Contemporary artist Sarah Sense (b. 1980) recently helped the Worcester Art Museum correctly attribute this tray to her Chitimacha ancestors and identify the colored pattern—a ring of bear's ears. For centuries, the Chitimacha people lived in the region of present-day Louisiana and made finely woven baskets using locally sourced river cane—a practice that continues today.ProvenanceOwnership history unknown. David Hale Fanning (b. 1830-d. 1926), Worcester, MA; to Worcester Art Museum, 1922On View
On viewCurrent Location
- Exhibition Location Gallery 3003
