Zulu Wire Basket

There are few words

that can describe the stunning beauty of these baskets.  Among them are: spectacular, intricate, jaw-dropping, mesmerizing, absolutely amazing!

Baskets of Africa tells us that the Zulu people have a long history of basket making.  Well known for their skillful artistry in using native plants and grasses to make African baskets.  These baskets are different however, they are not made of grass, they are made of telephone wire!

“Zulu weavers in South Africa have taken the intricate designs and incredible craftsmanship of their natural fiber baskets, and turned them into brightly-colored art from plastic-coated wire. Mesmerizing designs and vibrant colors are a hallmark of this functional art.”

They can be washed and used for storing (mostly dry) foods.  Or they can be simply admired for their beauty.  An exciting aspect of receiving a basket recently arrived from South Africa is the earthy smell of wood smoke imbued in the plastic-coating from many Zulu cooking fires.  Instantly transporting you to the heart of Zululand!

Zulu wire baskets

Owner-operator Cael Chappell has been working in African Arts & Crafts since in 1991, and founded Baskets of Africa in 2002 in order to focus more attention on the weavers and their creations.  Cael is deeply committed to the principles of Fair Trade and operates Baskets of Africa under a “blanket of trust and respect” for both the weavers and his customers.

Zulu Wire Baskets range in price from $16.50 to $195

Available online from Baskets of Africa