MAIVA: Natural Wave Dancing Basket

Bring the serenity of organic forms and natural fibres into your home with the MAIVA Dancing Basket, handwoven from palm leaf (also known as Ilala palm) in rural Zambia. Each one unique, the undulant lines of these fair trade African baskets are said to reflect the good and happy times in a village or homestead. These woven baskets are a true work of art, bringing a gentle sense of organic texture and careful craft to whichever space they inhabit.

When the Kariba Dam - a manmade dam on the borders of Zambia and Zimbabwe – was built in the 1970’s. many people were displaced in the process. The government and other parties sought to empower these displaced people by equipping them with the skills and tools to earn a living from traditional crafts such as basket weaving, blacksmithing and woodwork. The groups who create these beautiful dancing baskets are supported by such organisations, ensuring that they have the materials and the training to produce these baskets as well as ensuring that fair prices are paid and ethical working conditions observed.

The weavers who produce these dancing baskets tend to weave in groups, meeting outdoors regularly to weave in the shade. Income made from basket weaving is typically invested in family farming enterprises (the other mainstay of these communities along with traditional crafts) and to support the family and pay children’s school fees. You can meet the Zambian weavers here.


Material: PALM LEAF

Dimensions: max DIA (top)

X-Small: 19cm
Small: 26-36cm
Medium: 38-45cm
Large: 46-55cm

If you need a specific size please let us know prior to placing your order.

Please note, as this is a handmade product, dimensions & colour may vary from those shown in the photographs.


FAIR TRADE & HANDMADE IN ZAMBIA