Large - 23.5-25”

The BaTonga of Zimbabwe and Southern Zambia are famous for their basket weaving skills as well as their geometric designs. The ilala palm is woven into a characteristic square to begin and then radiates outwards to create dramatic patterns that are classic yet modern. The palm fibres are dyed with tree bark, and the baskets are finished with a distinctive herringbone pattern rim.

A basket takes roughly two weeks to complete, and these winnowing baskets are used to separate grain from the chaff, or other debris from the stored grain. In an area prone to drought and poverty, Tonga women are the entrepreneurs of their villages, bringing much-needed additional income to their families.

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.

Small (Light brown) - 8” x 9.5”

Medium (Brown) - 10” x 9.5”

Tonga stools are among hundreds of stools still being used in rural African villages. These particular stools are named after the Tonga people who originated in South Africa and overtime migrated north. Traditionally, only the head of the household could own and take his place on a Tonga stool.

These small stools with their sharp geometric designs have been carved by hand from a solid piece of wood. The Tonga people carve these stools with portability in mind, as they would take their own seating when attending weddings, funerals and ceremonies in neighbouring villages. Stack them, display them.

These sell out fast and we do get more in stock. If interested, please send us an email and we can send photos of our current options and invoice you via direct email. Please reach out: Info@thewanderlane.com

12-13” x 11-12”

The unique Batonga Nongo baskets are hand-woven by artisans in Zimbabwe. These artisans are well known for their basket weaving skills and mathematical design sense. Vase shaped with intricate geometric patterns unique to each basket, they vary in pattern and shape.

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.

Medium - 16”

Vintage Makenge baskets from Zambia are rare works of functional art. These are working baskets used in daily life for storage, winnowing and holding water. These unique baskets are an incredible testament to the traditional weaving skills of the Mbundu and Losi women of the remote Western Provence of Zambia. Every basket is handmade, thus one of a kind. These baskets are traditionally handed down to new brides as a treasured wedding gift and each basket can take up to two weeks to create. Makenges hold much value and as they begin to require patching, they are done so with great artistry. Each Vintage Makenge is truly a time tested work of art.

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.