This Tlingit basket is traditionally called a berry basket. When it was new, the spruce root was very flexible. The owner could flatten the basket, take it out to use when collecting berries, and then bring the berries home in the basket. Unfortunately, spruce root becomes fragile over time and baskets woven with it can develop splits if they are mishandled. Luckily, this basket remains in excellent condition.

The design is a traditional design with meanders in two horizontal bands and a band of “flying geese” in the center. The spruce root is finely twined and if you look closely, you will see a diagonal design in the twining, which gives the design movement.