While researching the Yanomamo Indians for components A and B, I came across these pictures of the baskets weaved by the women of the tribes. I saved them specifically for component C. I would love to have baskets of this quality hanging in my dining room.

Shotos and Burden baskets are woven by the women. Even though the baskets are used for everyday chores, they are defiantly pieces of art. The women weave and decorate the baskets. They make both flat baskets and burden baskets which are carried by a strap around the forehead, while the basket rests on the back like a backpack. Yanomamo baskets are colored a reddish color from crushed onoto seeds. The baskets are then decorated with traditional geometric designs with masticated charcoal pigment. The baskets are used for everything from carrying fish to firewood. Yanomamo Shoto's are flat baskets or trays, usually use in the shabano or hut to store things as well as for serving trays. They are stored by hanging from the shabano poles.

I see a true workman ship in the baskets. The women put forth effort to make sure these baskets are of real value to the tribe. The tight weaves are remarkable and beautiful at the same time. To me the artwork in these baskets are about pride and honor. The Yanomamo are a tribe that works together as a whole. The women, even though they are below men in status, want to do their part for the greater whole of the tribe. Even in the picture of the woman holding the basket, it seems as though she is looking at it with pride. The women do feel honor in being a part of the tribe and able to help in any way possible.

I chose these pieces of art because I am a lover of baskets. I would love to learn how to weave a basket. Thru the years, I have collected some beautiful baskets but these Yanomamo baskets put my collection to shame. Again, the workman ship of the baskets is amazing and I have great respect for these women. I have an easy life compared to them. Just knowing the history of these women and the chores they do with these baskets can bring a tear to my eye. I don’t believe many of us really know a hard days work like these women. It is all about survival of the people and doing what is necessary.

I would like to know the reasoning of the black designs that they choose for their baskets. Do certain designs pertain to specific baskets and what they are specifically used for?

I would love to know the true and real life of a Yanomamo woman , her relationship with other women and family and the different types of weaves she might use on her baskets.