|
The sweetgrass basket is one of the oldest forms of African art in the United States. This particular form of basketmaking
was brought to the Mount Pleasant community over 300 years ago by slaves who came from West Africa. The baskets were
an integral part of life and used to collect vegetables, cotton, fruit, and shellfish. Baskets were also made to
hold bread, clothing, and sewing supplies. Today, the descendents of slaves continue to pass the tradition
of basketmaking on from generation to generation. This Lowcountry heirloom was nearly a lost art around the onset
of the 20th century, however the interest in this treasure since 1930 has created a demand for the art form.
The coil baskets are made of bulrush, sweetgrass, pine needle, and palmetto leaf. They are freshly made and come
straight from the basket lady to my non-smoking home. My stock is limited as to what is pictured, and I cannot take
special orders. S/H for any basket is $8 unless otherwise specified. Insurance is optional. (This page
was last updated on 1/23/08)
|
|
| Sweetgrass Basket Samples - Baskets for SALE are pictured below |
|