Pima Winnowing Basket

ca. 1900

4.875" H x 15.25" D 

Hand Woven Large Open Bowl Form that Shows Wear Consistent with Traditional Use with stitch Loss Primarily in the Center of the Bowl and a Bit on the Bottom

Overall In Good Condition

The Pima winnowing basket (also known as a winnowing tray or parching tray) is a traditional coiled basket crafted by the Akimel O'odham people, commonly referred to historically as the Pima. These Indigenous groups from southern Arizona (part of the broader O'odham communities along the Gila River) are renowned for their exceptional basketry.

These shallow, wide trays were essential for food preparation, particularly winnowing—tossing grains like wheat or seeds in the air to separate the edible parts from chaff, dirt, or lighter debris using the wind. They were also used for parching (lightly roasting) foods. The form is typically a low-sided, open bowl or tray, often 12–22 inches in diameter and only a few inches high, making it practical for tossing contents.