Click on the image to view a high resolution image.
To return to thumbnails, use your computer's "back" button.

Type:	vessel
Ethnic Group:	Bushoong
Country:	Democratic Republic of Congo (Zaire)
ECU Number:	L0063-A
Description:	These two baskets are lidded; the smaller basket has a hanging hook.
Significance researched to date:	Baskets are used for a variety of purposes---to carry fish from the streams or cooked food such as cornmeal or cassava or as containers for items of wealth, personal meaning, or ritual significance. A closed container belonging to the chief might contain items of his insignia or sacred soil. Baskets used at a boyÕs initiation contain items transferred from one initiate to another. A ritual expert might carry protective medicines, charms, or special figures. Women may store personal items from jewelry to medicinal remedies.Baskets are made from natural fibers such as grasses, vines, raffia, leaf parts, date palms, papyrus or sorghum. The coiling technique of construction has been found in central and southern regions of Africa, and crossed or checked weaving in West Africa. Decorative effects are made by using predyed fibers or natural fibers of different colors. Patterns used were also seen in textiles, wood carvings and beadwork.Today, African basket weavers combine traditional patterns with innovative styles for personal use and for the tourist trade.(Chanda, 106-107, Hultgren, 80,82, Schildkrout, 101,108).