The Niger Bend

This basket is woven by hand by women in the wet and swampy regions of Benin, of swamp grass, a renewable, plentiful and eco-friendly material. The basket is fairly cylindrical although it tapers slightly toward the top; this makes it is especially useful in Africa for storing or carrying things. The weaving is mostly uniform throughout but there are variations in the color of the material creating an interesting, random pattern of browns against a basic light “straw” color. This variable woven design demonstrates the skill of the ladies who make this traditional craft. This basket is as versatile and useful as a woven plastic sack but beautiful and decorative and, of course, all natural.  17″ tall x 12″ diam at the top (43 x 30 cm)