Large Antique Ethiopian Harari Woven Grass Basket Leather Trim Cowrie Shell 20”

Description

Large Antique Ethiopian Harari Woven Grass Basket
with Leather Trim and Cowrie Shells 20” Diameter
Large early antique Ethiopian Harari Mother-In-Law basket (
hamat mot
), an original high art form from the African city of Harar in eastern Ethiopia. This Harari basket is large at 20" diameter, a shallow bowl form with footed base.  We were told this was made in the early 1900's.
Coil built of reeds and woven natural dyed grasses as the design. Vivid decorative geometric pattern in red, black, and sienna. Leather bound foot and rim with space for four straps decorated with three applied cowrie shells each. All of the leather straps are present as are all of the cowrie shells.  Shows minor wear in leather trimmed areas. No holes or tears in the basket.  The leather straps appear old and stiff with a few nicks but are all complete and functional.  The bottom of the basket is the side commonly exposed when hanging on a wall and the colors on that side appear to be slightly faded from sun exposure  in comparison to the top of the basket.  This attests to the many years that this basket was hanging on a Harari wall prior to the time we bought it.
We lived in Ethiopia in the late 1990's and traveled extensively throughout the country.  We sat in the home of a woman who collected and sold Harari baskets and listened to her for a couple hours telling us about Harar and the baskets as well as enjoying some of her coffee.  We bought this antique basket from her as well as a couple other baskets, which we have enjoyed displaying in our homes since that time.
Measurements:
Basket Diameter = 20 inches (51cm)
Basket Height = 6 inches (15cm)
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ADDITIONAL ITEMS:
If you purchase more than one item from us we will be happy to combine the items to save money on shipping costs.
The items I sell on eBay are exactly those shown in my photographs.  I attempt to demonstrate details of the items in my photos.  Please look the photos for details but if you have any questions please contact
me so I can clear up any questions.
All items are from a smoke-free, pet-free home.