All of our Yoruba beaded containers have been sold and are left here for reference and educational purposes.
YORUBA
Beaded Containers, Nigeria
These Yoruba cowrie covered baskets might have been made to be sold.
There are three side views of each of these cowrie covered baskets. A small screwdriver was placed on the inside to keep track of and mark the turning of the basketl. No cowries are missing on any of the bowls. Strong side lighting sometimes created dark shadows near the middle. Top and bottom views show the extent of the leather added. Some of the inside views show how the basketry is done and how the cowries are stiched on.
Beads and cowrie shells, besides being decorative, were signs of wealth and status. Many Yoruba sacred and secular objects were embellished with elaborate images and symbolic designs created by small glass beads. Small cowrie shells served a similar function, here adorning woven baskets.
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