Four types of basket: the hopper, the seed beater, the burden basket, and the sifter constituted the core of the baskets found in most parts of California (and nearby areas). The hopper is placed on a mortar to keep the material being milled from scattering. The sifter was used to winnow seeds or meal. The burden basket was conical and was carried on the back using a tump line.
RICHARD PETTINGER HELLER 