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Periodical article Periodical article Leiden University catalogue Leiden University catalogue WorldCat catalogue WorldCat
Title:Basketwork of Harar
Author:Hecht, Elisabeth-DorotheaISNI
Year:1992
Periodical:African Study Monographs: Supplementary Issue
Issue:18
Pages:1-39
Language:English
Geographic term:Ethiopia
Subject:basketry
External link:https://hdl.handle.net/2433/68368
Abstract:Harar is a Muslim town in Hararge, East Ethiopia, with a population of c. 50,000 people, who belong to five different ethnic and language groups: Harari (c. 20,000, the town elite), Kottu-Oromo, Argobba, Somali and Amhara. The material for the present publication on basketwork was collected in 1975 during three months' fieldwork in Harar. Basketwork is a refined art, carried out by Harari women. Distinct forms and shapes of baskets and distinct and complicated patterns were developed throughout probably several centuries, although material proof of basketmaking exists only for about a hundred years. The technique demands great skill, since foundation and oversewing coil often have to be composed with materials of several contrasting colours. The patterns reflect the cultural history of the town, or give the name of the inventor. Baskets have an essentially decorative function, namely as wall decoration, and must be arranged in a Harari house according to prescribed rules. On rarer occasions baskets serve a functional purpose, for example when they are used in the ceremonial exchange of gifts, particularly food, during life cycle festivities, or to serve special types of food to guests, for instance at a wedding. The art of basketmaking is still alive today. A tourist trade and craft has developed which is of a simpler make and less fine quality. Here it is most often Kottu women who work for a Harari dealer. Bibliogr., gloss., notes, ref., sum.
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