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Igiseke (prestige basket)

Early 20th century
Not on view
In Tutsi communities across Rwanda and Burundi vegetal fibers and reeds have been harnessed in the construction of renewable architecture. While men are responsible for the design and execution of those monumental structures, women have mastered the embellishment of their interiors with creations that range from the boldly woven panels that define distinct spaces within to refined basketry receptacles for storage of valuables. The distinctive elegant configuration of Tutsi lidded baskets evokes that of the architectural vernacular on an intimate scale. Their exteriors are emblazoned with a rich repertoire of dynamic graphic motifs in black or red ochre. This example is exceptional for both its impressive scale and the complexity of its elaboration that includes a figurative motif that spans the lid and lower half on either side.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Igiseke (prestige basket)
  • Artist: Tutsi artist
  • Date: Early 20th century
  • Geography: Rwanda or Burundi
  • Culture: Tutsi peoples
  • Medium: Plant fiber, pigment
  • Dimensions: H. 28 3/4 x W. 12 x D. 11 3/4 in. (H. 73 x W. 30.5 x D. 29.8 cm)
  • Classification: Basketry-Containers
  • Credit Line: Purchase, Julie Jason, Ilona Eken, and Leila Laoun Gift, and William B. Goldstein, MD, Gift, 2021
  • Object Number: 2021.224a, b
  • Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing

More Artwork

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Insika (screen), Tutsi artist, Cane, reed fibers, black pigment, Tutsi peoples
Insika (screen)
Tutsi artist
Early–mid-20th century
Cylindrical Basket and Lid, Palm fiber, split reed (?)
Cylindrical Basket and Lid
ca. 1550–1300 BCE
Panel, Tutsi artist, Woven grass, black reed fibers, Tutsi peoples
Panel
Tutsi artist
Early–mid-20th century
Basket, Plant fiber, Tlingit
Basket
Tlingit
late 19th century
Inyeqamo (screen), Tutsi artist, Fiber, Tutsi peoples
Inyeqamo (screen)
Tutsi artist
ca. 1940

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