1970s Botswana Basket with Lid & Neutral Tones - 14" Diam. X 6" H

Botswana baskets are proof of one of the most successful refugee integration stories in southern Africa.

African baskets were originally designed for utilitarian purposes – simply decorated and used to store or carry food. By the 1960s, weaving was becoming a dying art – but in the 1970s, it made a comeback as a commercial venture. Resettlement officers saw weaving as an income generator for Hambukushu refugees; a people who came from Angola into Botswana fleeing Portuguese attacks during Angola’s war of independence.

Basket making is a slow process with each taking about a month to complete. This example has a lid and is constructed using the Mokolwane Palm with neutral buff and brown coloration in simple circular patterns.  It would be a great addition to any style of décor from California Casual, Organic-Inspired... to Boho or Coastal Modern Design. 

Place of Origin: Botswana

Date of Manufacture: 1970s

Condition: Excellent

Wear: Consistent with age and use. Please refer to pictures.

Dimensions:

Total: 14 in. Diam., X 6 in. H

Mouth: 9.5 in. Diam.

Reference: 

United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees 

Botswana Development Corporation

Rocky Mountain Collegian, Colorado State University 

Explore more African Baskets at Our Taste Design.