While it looks like a woven doughnut, this ring shaped basket played an important role in the lives of many women in the Southwest.
Water was often quite a distance from the home, so the women would have to gather water and materials each day. This was done with large pots, called Olla’s. It was impractical to carry it with their arms, as it was very wide and very heavy when full of water. Their solution? Making these rings!
The rings would be worn on the top of the head, and the olla’s would be set atop of them. The ring provided cushion between the olla and the woman’s head, as well as help to distribute the heavy burden on their journey home.
