Birch-root basketry (tægerbinding)
Tægerbinding is a craft technique using roots to make baskets, trays and bowls. Birch roots are a common material in Norwegian tradition. Tægerarbeid and tågarbeid are other Norwegian terms used for this work.
How is it constructed?
Norges Husflidslag describes cleaning and soaking the roots before work begins. Split roots are bound around a whole root forming the core. Repeated bindings hold the structure together, following a different construction principle from baskets woven with crossing splints. Examine the actual binding rather than identifying the technique merely because the object is a basket.
Tradition and function
Food-carrying baskets known as sendingskurver were taken to ceremonial gatherings. Root basketry also features in Norges Husflidslag's efforts to preserve traditional techniques. An old or uncommon technique does not automatically make an individual object old.
What should a collector examine?
Photograph base, rim, handle and transitions between intact and damaged areas. Record loose bindings, breaks, distortion and modern repairs. Describe a dark surface as an observed colour rather than using it alone to determine age. Preserve ownership information and labels. Do not assign a particular locality or maker without documented provenance or a reasoned specialist comparison.
Sources
Norges Husflidslag: Tægerbinding; Norges Husflidslag: Tægerarbeid i Nord-Østerdalen; Norges Husflidslag: Tægerbinding, Lom.
