Zulu Tribal Beer Basket – Ukhamba – 23″H X 16″W X 41″C South Africa Cultures International

Uniquely handwoven from the Ilala Palm and Grass, these beautiful Ukhamba Zulu Beer Baskets are used to store beer and are made in Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa using all natural materials.

The baskets in this shop are authentic, vintage, grade AAA baskets, by top Zulu artisans and not the recently made. Certificates of Authenticity, grade and the artists name are still attached to most of the baskets.

This basket is made using the local Ilala Palm grass and leaves. The natural color is beige and other beautiful colors are created using natural dyes from bark, leaves, berries, clay and roots. The grass swells with the moisture from the beer, making the basket watertight. The highlight of this basket is the lavender color, much richer than the photo shows.

Zulu baskets are an integral part of the Zulu culture and customs that almost disappeared with the introduction of enamel, tin and plastic, and they are now used mostly in the very rural areas. Authentic traditional Zulu baskets are a rare find at this time. Collecting these baskets is an interesting but challenging trip through dirt roads and many miles from the city.

Decorative beer baskets are made for special ceremonial events such as Marriage, Harvest, Fertility, Birth Celebrations, and as gifts for family or special friends.

Please notice the tightness of the weave., Tighter weave is an indication of authenticity and the quality and collectible vlaue of the basket.

The Zulu have other beautiful vessels dedicated to beer, such as the beautifully made clay Zulu Beer Pots.

Diamonds represent Femininity: Daughters or female cows
Triangles represent Masculinity Sons or bull calves
Zigzag repeat Regiments of War

Approximate Dimensions: 23″H X 16″ X 41″ Circumference