Binga baskets, also commonly called Tonga baskets, are traditional grain winnowing baskets handmade by the Batonga people in the Binga district of Zimbabwe. They are relatively flat and great as wall decor.

These contemporary solid-edged baskets are the apex of the basket maker's art in Zimbabwe. The baskets start as a woven square and end up almost perfectly round. The pattern on the edging is referred to as "snake's belly", as the pattern resembles the scales of a serpent. The design is very functional, as the baskets are used to winnow grain even today. The baskets are sometimes called "grandmother baskets" because few younger women are making them.


Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents, and have been treasured by several owners. Small splits, scrapes and cracks are a normal part of their patina attesting to their age and extensive use. We examine each piece carefully when we receive it and report any damage we find in our listings. Please look carefully at the pictures which may also reveal condition and damage.

Materials & Techniques:
Raffia

International: No International Shipping for this auction.
Combined shipping: Please ask about combined shipping for multiple lots before bidding.

Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; Good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents, and have been treasured by several owners. Small splits, scrapes and cracks are a normal part of their patina attesting to their age and extensive use. We examine each piece carefully when we receive it and report any damage we find in our listings. Please look carefully at the pictures which may also reveal condition and damage.