ZULU CRAFTED BASKETS

ZULU CRAFTED BASKETS

ZULU CRAFTED BASKETS

Zulus are the largest cultural group in South Africa. Descendant of the Ngunis of southwest Africa, their history dates back to the 14th and 15th centuries, when they migrated south and settled in South Africa. Spread through the hills of Kwazulu-Natal, situated on the eastern coast of South Africa, where there is a concentration of artisans working in the art of basket shop, an occupation reserved for women. They are recognized for their craftsmanship.

These African handmade baskets are used for food storage, some different types of these baskets are traditionally used for garnishing grains. They come in a variety of types, sizes and colors. African women use natural materials found in the soil or from a plant or tree to make baskets.

Materials used in manufacturing

The materials used in the manufacturing consist of the Ilala palm tree, which grows in the region.
The leaves are cut and dried to be intertwined in thin, light baskets.
And the wild banana leaf, Ncebe, which gives the basket a color, contrasting with the raw color of Ilala. All colors come from natural pigments obtained by the cooking of leaves, cork roots and fruits of South African flora. The designs found in baskets aren’t just decorations, each symbol has a meaning.

Meaning of drawings used on baskets

✓ The triangle represents male power;
✓ The double triangle represents a married man;
✓ Blood represents female power;
✓ The double slang represents the married woman
✓The zig-zag represents the Assegais of Shaka (king);
✓A series of losangos represent the Shaka’s shields (king’s spears);
✓ Small squares represent the celebration of the good harvest, rains and a new child;

Note: Despite being very popular in South Africa especially to the Zulu people, this art is not limited only there, it is also common to find in other parts of the African continent, especially developed by women.