GH79C
$34.00
These natural grass baskets are tightly woven by expert weavers in Ghana. A smaller version of our kettle basket, they feature a vibrant teal pattern (patterns vary), a pear-shaped bottom and a grass swing handle.
Woven from sustainable and durable elephant grass, these indispensable baskets stand the test of time, even with daily use. The basket can also be rinsed with water and re-shaped, as needed.
Measures 8"D x 6"T (9" to top of handle). Due to the handcrafted nature of this item, woven patterns are varied, and some variation is expected in the size and coloration of this basket. See photos for examples.
Starting from a small woven circle, Ghanaian basket weavers work their way out from a central point to reveal beautiful, distinctive Bolga baskets. Sometimes called “market baskets,” Bolga baskets are woven from veta vera, or elephant grass. While the grass is grown primarily in southern Ghana, weavers in the northern region of Bolgatanga excel at transforming the tough grass fiber into the iconic baskets. The people from the region rely on the sale of handcrafted items to supplement their income, and their craftsmanship is demonstrated by the high quality of these artfully woven baskets.
The weaving of Bolga baskets in Ghana has been a traditional skill for many generations, and is often a communal process. The Bolga baskets sold by Swahili Modern are fair trade and a reliable source of income for weavers and their families. Just as the baskets begin as a small circle and expand, so does the impact of purchasing fair trade items that directly benefit, support and empower the artisans who create them.
Durable Bolga baskets are hand-woven and stand the test of time. Stalks of elephant grass are split, and twisted before the weaving process even begins. The grass is then often hand-dyed to create vibrant colors and intricate patterns. Lastly, the many fibers of grass that fan out from the finished weave are carefully trimmed and tucked away to reveal each beautiful basket.
