There's something timeless about a well-crafted basket that brings warmth to any space. This handwoven straw basket from Manipur carries within its woven strands the story of artisans who have perfected their craft over countless seasons. With its natural beige tones and generous proportions measuring 20 cm in diameter and 30 cm in height, this piece serves as both a functional storage solution and a beautiful accent that adds organic texture to your home.
About the Craft
The art of straw weaving in Manipur runs deep through the cultural fabric of the region. Local artisans harvest natural straw at just the right time, when the fibers have achieved optimal strength and flexibility. The preparation process involves drying, sorting and sometimes treating the straw to enhance its durability while maintaining its natural character. Weaving a basket of this size demands considerable skill and time. The artisan begins from the base, carefully interlacing each strand in patterns passed down through families. The distinctive decorative band around the middle showcases an openwork design that requires precise tension control to create uniform diamond-like shapes. The twin handles are individually braided and reinforced where they meet the body, ensuring they can bear weight while maintaining the basket's elegant silhouette.
Speciality
What makes this basket truly special is its authentic, handcrafted origin. Each piece carries slight variations that mark it as genuinely handmade rather than mass-produced. The Manipuri weavers bring regional techniques that give this basket its particular character and strength. Unlike synthetic alternatives, natural straw ages beautifully, developing a richer patina over time. The craft supports traditional livelihoods and keeps ancient weaving knowledge alive in communities where these skills might otherwise fade. When you bring this basket into your home, you're not just acquiring storage but connecting with a heritage craft that has served communities for generations.
How to Care?
Caring for your straw basket ensures it remains beautiful and functional for years. Shake out or vacuum gently to remove dust and debris from between the woven strands. For spot cleaning, use a barely damp cloth and allow the basket to dry completely in a well-ventilated area. This is important: never store the basket in an airtight container, as natural fibres need air circulation to prevent moisture buildup and potential mildew. Keep the basket away from prolonged direct sunlight, which can cause the straw to become brittle over time. If the basket gets wet, let it air dry naturally in a ventilated space.
This handwoven straw basket from Manipur represents the perfect marriage of utility and artistry. It brings natural beauty and practical storage to your living spaces while honoring the skilled hands that created it through patient, methodical weaving.
This basket offers remarkable versatility for casual, everyday use throughout your home. The generous size accommodates laundry, throws, toys or even serves as stylish storage for rolled yoga mats and beach towels. The natural straw material is lightweight yet surprisingly sturdy, making it easy to move from room to room. The openwork pattern in the central band provides ventilation, making it ideal for storing items that benefit from air circulation. Two braided handles offer a comfortable grip and add visual interest from every angle. The neutral beige colour complements virtually any decor style, from bohemian to minimalist to coastal themes.
This product is handmade and may have slight variations or dissimilarities that are a natural outcome of the human involvement in the process. These minor variations of Stitches/Motifs add to its charm and ensure its uniqueness & authenticity.
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