Makenge Flat Wedding Basket Zambia 16 Inch
Width: 16.0
Depth: 2.0
Description
Handwoven Makenge flat wedding basket crafted by the Mbundu women from the root of the Makenge plant. These baskets are traditionally given as wedding gifts and have been used and repaired for generations. This basket was handwoven to serve fruits, seeds, and other dry foodstuffs. Harvesting and crafting these baskets requires a long process of harvesting the Makenge root without harm, allowing the plant to grow up to three feet per month, ensuring a long-lasting supply of weaving materials. Once harvested, the root is then sliced and "peeled," weavers use the insides for basket coils and split the outer portion into fibers wrapped around the coils. Crafting the Makenge baskets takes several days of meticulous harvesting, weaving, and dying. The dyes added to the baskets are derived from roots and leaves and after drying, the fibers are once again re-wet as women spend several more days weaving the basket. The final result is a beautiful and rigid piece of craftsmanship, designed to withstand the test of time.
Approximate Age: mid 20th Century
People: ["Mbunda "]
Country of Origin: Zambia
Material
Condition
Overall Condition: Good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents, and have been treasured by several owners.