SquareTrade © AP6.0
This beautiful piece is an ukhamba basket, traditionally used to hold beverages, especially homemade beer. It is so tightly woven that it becomes waterproof; when liquids are poured in, the interior pores swell while the outside sweats, thus cooling the contents by evaporation. As this is a true artwork, we do not recommend pouring your local brew in, however! Baskets are also used as gifts and for ceremonial purposes. This zigzag pattern is a masculine symbol. The weaving fibers are from the Ilala palm, while the colors come from various indigenous roots, leaves, berries, and other materials, usually soaked and boiled for many days. Ours comes with an informative explanation card, complete with the name of the artist, Gugu Gumede. This is a Fair Trade product, as most of our items are, so the artist received good compensation for the amazing skill and efforts used. We would recommend this to collector's of fine basketry or African art. Of course, it would also be an excellent decorative accent, or could do practical duty as a container.
To choose your new African basket from over 100 beautiful hand made creations, please visit our shop, Hand It to You!
Please note that this piece is handmade of organic materials. It will show the natural flaws and personal qualities of its origin. We feel this adds immensely to its individual value! Measurements are approximate and usually taken at the widest or highest points.
Condition: New
Materials: Ilala palm; natural dyes
Origin: KwaZulu, South Africa
Dimensions: 5.5 inches diameter x 7.5 inches height with a 3.25 inch opening
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