Wire Basketry

The beginnings of Zulu wire basketry was initiated long ago by the highly esteemed metalsmith profession. Village blacksmiths crafted ornamental metal wire that was incorporated into decorated dance staffs and gourds. This art form later evolved into elegant artistic wire forms and eventually developed into the colorful plastic-coated telephone wire basketry produced today.


Zulu wire baskets (mbenge) (Artist: Elliot Mkhize)
Zulu wire baskets (mbenge) (Artist: Elliot Mkhize)
Zulu woven plate on pedestal

 

 

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