Vintage Handwoven Botswana Bowl

Natural woven palm basket

Large, open bowl-shaped baskets are used by women for carrying items on their heads and for winnowing grain after it has been threshed. But today they are essential items for unique home decor or even as a fruit basket. 

As the basket becomes larger with each row the time spent weaving exponentially increases.

The Story behind this basket:

NGWAO BOSWA (Gomare Botswana) 

This basket is made by Ngapambe

In 1986 around 40 basket weavers united in Gumare to form a cooperative called Ngwao Boswa, which means "A Traditional You Have Inherited”. Twice a week they met for basket weaving at their house in Gomare village, from where they also sell their baskets. 

Basketry in Gomare is, as in other remote rural areas, an ancient agricultural craft. The basket weavers, who are mainly women use locally gathered natural materials. Formerly the baskets were, and some still are, made for utilitarian domestic needs.

There are different  basic shapes woven in different techniques which are determined by their particular purpose, usually storage or transport of grain, beer and herbs. The symbolic patterns crafted through  generations are related to nature or legends.

The main raw material utilized to produce Botswana baskets is the fibre of the "vegetable ivory" palm tree (Hyphaene petersiana ), called Mokola in Botswana.

To create intricate designs, the natural cream-coloured palm fibre is dyed shades of brown with the roots or bark of the Motlhakola (Euclea divinorun ) and Motsentsila (Berchemia discolor ) trees.

Dimensions and weight:

Approximately 44 cm Wide  x 10 cm Deep

Weight: 765 g

Q: Is the bowl suitable for food use?

A: While the bowl is primarily designed for decorative purposes, it can be used to serve dry food items such as fruits, nuts, or wrapped snacks. However, it is not recommended for wet or liquid-based foods.

Q: Can the bowl be displayed outdoors?

A: The bowl is best suited for indoor display. If you wish to showcase it outdoors, it is recommended to place it in a covered area to protect it from direct exposure to sunlight and moisture.

Q: How do I clean the bowl?

A: To clean the bowl, simply wipe it gently with a soft cloth. Avoid using water or any cleaning agents as they may damage the natural fibers and handwoven texture.