Striped Woven Basket with Handles - Circle of Carry & Contrast – Enkito e Oltau (Step of Gathering).

Striped Woven Basket with Handles - Circle of Carry & Contrast – Enkito e Oltau (Step of Gathering).

More than a basket—this piece is a woven invocation of rhythm, strength, and visual chant.

Introducing the Enkito e Oltau Circle of Carry & Contrast: a handcrafted basket made from natural beige fibers, accented with horizontal stripes in blue, black, and brown. The weaving alternates between tight and open sections, creating a textured interplay of light and shadow. Two rounded handles wrapped in reddish-brown fiber offer both function and flair. This basket transforms containment into ceremony and contrast into storytelling.

Artisan Connection:

Handwoven by cooperatives in Nyeri, Kenya, the basket is shaped using coiling and plaiting techniques that reflect Maasai shield symbolism and Kikuyu gathering traditions. The color bands evoke elemental harmony—blue for clarity, black for grounding, brown for memory—while the reddish handles suggest readiness and warmth.

Symbolism in Material & Form:

• Horizontal stripes: Movement, rhythm, and visual chant.

• Blue band: Clarity, breath, and sacred pause.

• Black band: Grounding, protection, and ancestral rhythm.

• Brown band: Memory, earth, and ceremonial layering.

• Reddish handles: Vitality, readiness, and tactile grace.

• Natural fibers: Earth, resilience, and artisan pride.

Features & Benefits:

• Natural materials: Sisal, baobab fiber, raffia, cotton.

• Functional styling: Ideal for gifting, boutique display, or ceremonial hosting.

• Culturally rooted craftsmanship: Each piece tells a story.

• Versatile use: Storage, decor, or ritual offering.

Product Details:

• Dimensions: Approx. 40 cm height × 35 cm diameter.

• Handle Wraps: Cotton thread, naturally dyed.

• Materials: Sisal, baobab fiber, raffia, cotton.

• Care Instructions: Keep dry. Dust gently. Rotate seasonally.

Contain with contrast. Carry with rhythm. Support an artisan.

Add the Circle of Carry & Contrast to your space and carry the spirit of Kenyan craftsmanship into every breath and belonging.