Tutsi Agaseki or Ibeseke Basket

Broad-shouldered and sunny, with chunky black lightning strokes across the belly.

This agaseki or ibeseke basket is Tutsi, from Rwanda, East Africa, and dates to the 20th century. Rwandan baskets are often finished with geometric patterns, usually created by wrapping coils in dyed or naturally contrasting fibers so the design follows the curve of the form. A wide, rounded body in pale straw color sits under a pyramid lid ending in a modest point. Heavy black zigzag bands spiral around the middle, with narrower strokes lower down. Coils are fine and tidy. It is 7 inches high and 4 in diameter.

A sturdy build and a flair for drama.