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Zulu Baskets

A variety of materials are used to construct vessels - clay, grass and telephone wire.

However where clay is scarce, baskets are made using the split leaves of the iLala palm. Soaking the leaves in a natural colourant made from dung or other natural pigments creates patterns. The patterns advertise the maker of the basket and often incorporate traditional designs. The vessels are sealed with moist maize flour that causes the grass to swell.