Large - 12-14" x 12-14" x 9-10”

These Vintage Nigerian handmade cowrie shell & leather carrying baskets are made by the Hausa people of Northern Nigeria. These rare leather & cowrie shelled baskets were used to transport food and valuables. Cowrie shells were used as a form of currency in past centuries & in a decorative way, a symbol of wealth. 

Please note that many of our handmade items are one of a kind, perfectly imperfect, vintage and have indigenous repair work which we believe adds to the intrinsic value and beauty of the items. No two items are exactly the same. As a result, our website photos are a close representation of the items available, but may not be identical to the ones you receive. If you prefer to select an exact item, please notify us at info@thewanderlane.com and we will send photos of what we have in stock.

Price Range - $225-$500

Size Range - 109-123” x 18-24"

Our Vintage one of a kind Kuba cloth panels are made from the leaves of the raffia palm tree which are woven by the men of the tribe on simple vertical looms.  The women then adorn them with elaborate embroidered geometric patterns, tie-dye, appliqué, patchwork, drawn-thread work, cowrie shells, or tight cut-pile tufting. 

The raffia panels can be sewn together for wall panels, pillows, ceremonial dress or to form a wrap and many other decorative uses. Today the Kuba cloth is a collectible piece of African textile.

If you wish to order, please contact us at info@thewanderlane.com for photos & pricing of Kuba panels currently in stock. Please note that many of our handmade items are one of a kind, perfectly imperfect, vintage and have indigenous decorative repair work which we believe adds to the intrinsic value and beauty of the items. No two items are exactly the same.

36” x 24”

Black and White photographic portrait of Karo Woman, Omo Valley, Ethiopia
By David Ballam
Limited Edition, hand signed & embossed
Printed on Tecco PM230 Paper
Framed: Ash finish, art glass

Fine art shipping available - please contact us directly for a quote to ship to your area. Los Angeles area pickup/delivery available. 
A collection of portraits from the Omo Valley in southern Ethiopia. With traditional customs and beliefs, that are still largely unaffected by outside influences, the people of the Omo Valley are beautifully unique. 
-David Ballam, Photographer