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Zulu Basketry
Zulu Basket
by May Zulu
Zulu baskets
were an integral part of Zulu tradition and custom, but nearly died out with the introduction of enamel, tin and
plastic utensils. Decorative
beer baskets were made for special events and purposes such as
marriages, harvest, fertility, birth and as gifts to family or
special friends. They were bound and stitched by hand "water
tight" from grass and Ilala palm leafs
(Hyphaene Coriacea). The natural color of the palm is beige.
Other colors were came from natural dyes such as bark, berries,
leaves, clay, roots, dung and combinations.
Very large Zulu Basket by May Zulu
May Zulu is a
master basket weaver from Kwa Zulu Natal. She is well known for
tight woven, over sized beautiful baskets. Baskets can take up to
two months to make. This basket measures + - 60 centimetres wide and
is + - 65 centimetres tall.
Basket Names:
Ukhamba: A rigid
bulb-shaped container rendered watertight by the tightness of the
coil-weave, and the material used (Ilala Palm). Generally used to
serve sorghum beer on ceremonial occasions.
Isichumo: A rigid, bottle-shaped basket used for carrying
liquids, it has a lid, which fits over the neck like a cap. The same
technique is used for the Ukhamba and works on the same principles.
Isiquabetho: A large open shaped basket, traditionally used
for gathering and carrying grain.
Iqoma: A
bowl-like basket with deeper and inward curving sides, also used for
carrying grain. Many have a concave base, which comfortably sits
upon the head.
Master Weaver Beauty Ngxongo
Click this
thumb to view a short article on Zulu basketry.
Zulu Basket by May Zulu
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