Tlingit Twirling Logs Canister Basket

Late 20th Century

4.5" H x 4.75" D

Hand Woven Tightly with Twirling Logs Motif Design

In Very Good Condition with Rim Damage and Dimple in Bottom is Bent

Tlingit Twirling Logs Canister Basket is a traditional form of Tlingit basketry, likely a covered cylindrical ("canister"-style) basket featuring a distinctive geometric design known as "twirling logs" (or a similar swirling/twisted log motif). This pattern is one of the many bold, abstract designs in Tlingit spruce root basketry, inspired by observations in nature or cultural elements.

Tlingit baskets from southeast Alaska are renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship. They are primarily made using two-strand twined weaving from split roots of the Sitka spruce tree (harvested in spring or fall, peeled, cured, and split). These baskets are often watertight and decorated with false embroidery — where dyed grasses (like bear grass or maidenhair fern) are wrapped around the weft strands, creating vibrant patterns visible only on the exterior.