Explore our diverse Native American Art
Discover a variety of unique Native American artworks, each piece intricately crafted to celebrate and honor indigenous traditions and heritage.
Frasier River basket
Fraser River baskets are intricate and beautiful works of art created by Indigenous peoples in the Fraser River region of British Columbia, Canada. These baskets are known for their unique designs and use of natural materials such as cedar bark and bear grass. Each basket tells a story and holds cultural significance for the communities that produce them.
(Aboriginal Indian Basketry pg 423)
Tsimshian drummer
The Chilkat blanket was conceived to be a royal object in motion—the fringe swirls and sways as the dancer, dips and turns to a drum beat.
Chilkat blankets are prestige objects worn over the shoulder by men and women during dances and ceremonies on the Northwest Coast, originating with the Tshimshian.
Designs spun in cedar bark and Mountain Goat wool represent the crest of the owner, which usually incorporates motifs symbolizing eyes and feathers.
(The Chilkat Dancing Blanket)
(American Indian Art spring 1997 pg 44-51)
Shaman rattle
Rattles are used by shamans, the most common being the so-called oyster catcher rattle which takes the shape of the long beaked shore bird. Various human and animal figures exquisitely carved on the back of the rattle represent the shaman and his spirit assistants. The sound of the rattle indicateds a supernatural presence.
(Objects of Bright Pride pg 82 & 87.)
When adorned, as with ermine, it is a complex chief’s rattle. The chief while he is making a speech, shakes the rattle to emphasize what he is saying.
(Kwakiutl Art pg 94-95)
Welcome to Our Unique Collection
Baskets made for different uses
PAUITE flat winnowing basket APACHE Ollo basket KARUK basket
Baskets are used for utilitarian and ceremonial purposes. They are well suited to a seasonal subsistence lifestyle once practiced by many Indian tribes because they were light and durable. Various basketry forms are used in the gathering, processing, and cooking of food resources.
Identification of Native American baskets is primarily determined by the specific types of grasses, bark, roots, and other plant materials that are native to the tribe's environment. Additionally, the choice of weaving design and patterns, as well as the basket’s use, also plays a crucial role in distinguishing and attributing these unique artifacts to their respective tribes.
Shona Hah Dolls -sharing stories of the old ones
PAWNEE elder telling about his last buffalo hunt
A Pawnee warrior, with his weathered face and excited eyes, captivates the young audience with his storytelling. As he shared his story of his last Buffalo hunt, with the danger and excitement, his words spoke the wisdom of generations past, weaving a tapestry of traditions that held the attention of this youngster.
Lessons from the buffalo hunt teach us important values that are deeply rooted in Native American culture. One key lesson is respect for nature and the animal world. The buffalo provided food, clothing, and tools for survival, so it was essential to honor its spirit and show gratitude for it”s sacrifice. Another lesson is the importance of teamwork and cooperation. A successful buffalo hunt required coordination among tribal members, each fulfilling their role to ensure the hunt's success. Additionally, patience and perseverance were vital lessons learned from the buffalo hunt, as it often required tracking the herd for days before making a move. Overall, the buffalo hunt was not just a means of susistance but a profound spiritual and communal experience that taught valuable life lessons.
Artifacts- pottery, jewelry, weaving
HOPI small pottery bowl with corn design
Pottery and crafts of Native Americans encompass a rich tapestry of cultural heritage, reflecting traditions passed down through generations. Each piece tells a story of creativity, spirituality, and connection to the natural world, with intricate designs and vibrant colors that captivate the imagination.
From the delicate beauty of Southwest pottery to the intricate beadwork of Plains tribes, these art forms are a testament to the skill and artistic vision of indigenous peoples across the North American continent.
Explore a variety of native cultures
Hear the drumming of the grandmother, share the excitment of catching the Char fish in the ice, and feel the heat of the parkas. Discover the rich histories and vibrant cultures of over 100 tribes, all beautifully captured in our authentic carved Shona Hah Little People. Uncover the legacy of the MacRae family Native American collection with each artifact telling a unique story.
Visit the Collection Store to choose the Little Person that speaks to you.