I've always been interested in Native-American culture. Could you tell me more about collecting Native-American art?
WHAT THE EXPERT SAYS
'Very early material in the American-Indian art field would include examples of prehistoric pottery,' says Delia Sullivan, the specialist head of sale of American Indian art at Christie's. The auction house's sale on January 12 focuses on American-Indian art. 'We are offering a number of Anasazi pots - large ollas,' Sullivan says. 'We also have Hawikuh pottery from the early 1600s - this culture preceded the Zuni culture from the Southwest United States.'
Sullivan says collectable pieces are still being made. 'There is a vibrant market for contemporary American-Indian art,' she adds.
IN MY TRIBE
Many different Native-American cultures produced unique works, Sullivan says. 'The southwestern cultures produced baskets, pottery, blankets and rugs, kachina dolls, and silver and turquoise jewellery. The Plains Indians made things of hide and decorated them with porcupine quills, and later, small glass beads,' she says. 'The Northwest Coast peoples carved things out of wood, like feast bowls and knife handles. These items are imbued with spiritual meaning.'