Chief Hyarima was among the great warriors and leaders of Trinidad’s indigenous people, who led resistance to Spanish colonisation of the Caribbean. In c.1625 he fought to preserve ancestral lands and culture and achieved significant victories against European forces. He is considered Trinidad’s first national hero. Carib oral tradition has it that his daughter, Anacoana, was the first of her community to be baptised a Roman Catholic and is the ancestress of the Carib Queens. The silver handle of this basket bears an image of her.

The basket is woven from Moriche palm, framed by an 18-carat yellow gold and sterling silver bowl. The rim is set with mother of pearl and garnets.