Zululand has a strong tradition of craftwork in its rural areas. One of which is Zulu basketry. Zulu baskets are woven using the Ilala Palm, which only grows in certain parts of Zululand. This palm is then dyed by the woman, by boiling it in water along with various natural material found locally, such as the roots from trees, leaves and berries.
iThunga Africa is a Fine African Arts company, which prides itself in selecting the finest one of a kind African Art pieces. Our hand woven Zulu baskets are among the most collectable baskets in the world, and have found themselves in private galleries and Art galleries worldwide.
These baskets size and design may often reflect the recipient’s social status. A triangular motif is a male symbol. A diamond motif is a female symbol. A continuous band of zigzag pattern is called the “Spears Of Shaka” named after the famous Zulu king, Shaka Zulu.
The messages of these symbols were traditionally expressed with beads. In the old days, baskets were made for utilitarian purposes and had minimal decorations.
Decorative Zulu basket weaving is a recent extension to this beaded art form. It conveys the Zulu continuity with their culture, traditions and symbolism.
Basket weaving is an important source of income to the woman in these Zulu villages.
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