Klamath Quiver

Quiver, 19th century
Klamath people; Southern Oregon or Northeastern California
Dry tule; 17 x 6 x 1 3/4 in.
19629
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Harrie H. Teaboldt
This woven quiver that was used to carry arrows is one of approximately six complete examples known to exist. It is a fine example of basket stitching but, the rarity of this object makes it one of the Bowers Museum's most prized in the collection. Flat and conical shaped the quiver was woven with tall marsh grasses called tule. The weaver incorporated alternating lines of brown dyed tule that encircle the basket at intervals for decoration. This quiver illustrates the vast extent to which the Klamath used tules and other water growing plants to manufacture most of their possessions. Whereas other tribes might make such things as the quiver, moccasins, leggings and even house coverings out of animal skins, the Klamath people preferred to weave such articles out of the plants growing in the marsh areas. Much of Klamath life revolved around watery areas where the staples of their diets (fish, birds and pond lily seeds) were trapped and gathered. The Klamath developed sophisticated and specialized traps and nets, some of which were designated for individual species of birds and fish. Less often large animals such as bears and deer were hunted and a quiver like the one pictured here may have been used. It may also be possible that this quiver was used during times of instability with neighboring tribes or in defense of the large expanse of lands claimed by new settlers to the west. All images and text are protected by copyright. Please contact the Collection Department for permission to use. Information subject to change with further research.