Zulu Ilala Palm Baskets, South Africa

Each basket is made by hand, using all-natural fibers, materials and dyes.  It can take up to a full month to produce one medium sized basket that will be unique in size, pattern shape and color.  Each basket is accompanied with a tag describing the patterns, colors and is signed by the weaver.

Depending on the type of lid they have, the larger, watertight baskets are referred to as Ukhambas (lid fits inside the top, cork-like) or Isichumo (lid fits over the top, jar-like). Smaller baskets with lids or Iquthu often have a looser weave and are traditionally used to store medicinal herbs. Open bowls or Isiquabetho and Iqoma are used to store nuts, grains, fruits or vegetables while flatter baskets or Mbenges are used as tops to clay jars or open baskets.