The Chippewa Indians learned that the yearly growth rings of black ash trees
can be loosened by pounding the tree with the flat side of an axe.
This is due to the large amount of porosity between rings in this type of tree.
The resulting "splints" are then used to create intricate baskets like this one here.
The splints, when soaked, are very pliable and easy to work with.
They become very hard and durable when they dry.
The whole process and art form have been passed on from generation to generation.
The small, lidded basket seen here is a unique museum piece...
made by a Chippewa Indian woman using splints she pounded from an
ash tree. The white/brown color is natural for this type & age of wood.
Seeing this piece gave me a whole new appreciation for "the beauty of wood".