Tutsi Agaskei or Ibeseke Basket with Lid

A basket with a witch’s hat and a zigzag in its belt.

Tutsi weavers of Rwanda, East Africa, made this lidded agaskei, or ibeseke, basket in rattan in the 20th century. Baskets of this kind are commonly woven from coiled fibre and often serve for storage or for keeping food and milk. The body is tightly coiled in warm honey tones, with stepped dark brown zigzag bands set between narrow stripes. A tall, tapering conical lid sits closely over the rim and finishes in a fine point.

About 12 inches tall. Fills a corner and keeps its own counsel.