Vintage Botswana Basket with Terracotta and Black Designs Measuring 9.5 Inches Diameter by 3 Inches Tall

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.

Botswana baskets are considered some of the finest examples of weaving in Africa. One will notice outstanding workmanship and unique designs – some of which include representations of animals or of nature.

Basket making is a slow process with each taking about a month to complete. These baskets are constructed using the Mokolwane Palm which are cut and boiled in natural earth-tone coloring which makes it a great addition to any style of décor. This example has natural buff tones along with terracotta and dark brown and would work in an Organic Inspired, Warm Minimalist or California Casual interior setting.

Place of Origin: Botswana

Date of Manufacture: 1970s

Condition: Excellent

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

Dimensions: 9.5 in. Diam. X 3 in. H

Reference: United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and Botswanacraft.