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Fabric needs to be cleaned Artisan: Delphine Ruth Yahnahki (Signed)
• Tribal Affiliation: Mescalero Apache
• Culture: Native American: US
• Origin: New Mexico, USA
• Handmade: Yes
• Modified Item: NoFor your consideration is an exceptional, full-sized authentic vintage Native American cradleboard (papoose baby carrier) handcrafted on the Mescalero Apache Reservation in New Mexico. This premium collector's piece features clear, verified provenance with the artisan's original handwritten ink signature on the lower back wooden slat: "Delphine Yahnahki, Mescalero Indian."
About the Artisan:
Delphine Ruth Yahnahki (1929–2011) was a highly revered community elder, cultural practitioner, and traditional medicine woman within the Mescalero Apache Tribe. She spent her life serving her community and was well-known for her vital spiritual role guiding young maidens during sacred cultural puberty rites (the Sunrise Ceremony). Having an authentic piece directly handcrafted and signed by a respected tribal medicine woman adds deep historical context and significant collector appeal.
Design Features & Materials:
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Framework: Traditional masterfully constructed bentwood hoop framework supporting flat horizontal slatted backing boards with flush vertical structural metal pins.
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Fabric Wrap: Stunning, vibrant signature yellow cloth-covered wrap featuring the classic rear tie-bow accent and crisp, tightly bound crisscross lacing strips. Needs cleaned
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Accompanying Accents: Includes a spectacular matching miniature hand-woven Apache Burden Basket hanging charm. The basket showcases gorgeous geometric weaves, genuine buckskin leather trim, and is finished beautifully with dangling metallic tin cones (jingles).
Dimensions:
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Total Height: Approximately 35.5 Inches
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Total Width: Approximately 12 Inches
Condition Notes:
Excellent vintage condition with outstanding structural integrity. The bentwood frame is completely solid, balanced, and lacks warping. The flat wood slats are firmly secured. The yellow fabric wrap is fully intact, exhibiting some localized storage dust and minor age-related fabric surface patina that beautifully confirms its authentic vintage history. The woven burden basket and tin cones are completely intact. Please review all provided close-up high-resolution photographs to carefully evaluate condition details.Shipping will be high based on size of box and shipping materials
