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Museum object · Photographs and Still Images

Photograph of Etta Moten Barnett seated next to a collection of baskets

ca. 1960

Smithsonian NMAAHC collection

COLLECTION RECORDImage not availableExplore the catalog description and source record.
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Source catalog description

This description refers to material held by Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. Visual details below describe the original material.

This is a black and white photograph of Etta Moten Barnett seated next to a pile of baskets. Wearing a long sleeved white blouse with a brooch at the neckline and a grey straight skirt, she is seated with her legs tucked underneath her. She is seated on a soft rectangular surface, possibly a mattress, covered with a textile that has light colored stripes and flowerpots in rows. Next to her on the surface is a large, checkered tote bag that appears to be woven. Etta Moten Barnett twists her torso to her right towards a large pile of woven baskets of various shapes, sizes and patterns that are piled next to and behind her. In the photograph she reaches with both hands towards one oval shaped basket with an intricate horizontal pattern. Her gaze is directed towards the basket.

Sources & collection details

Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture — original record ↗

Source collection ↗

Catalog metadata · CC0 · Source checked 2026-10-13

Catalog reference: A2022.13.1.35.4

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