Basket Item Number: 3489/24 a-c from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Pyramid-like basket, with a thin oval-shaped opening and rectangular base (part a). Has a separate lid (part b). Basket is naturally coloured and woven in alternating sections of horizontal and vertical chevrons. Has a short foot, made of rattan(?) strips nailed together. Additional strand tied to frame with dark brown plant fibre. Along the bottom edge, on the back of the basket, there is a plain rod, securing long, braided straps. The straps extends overtop of the basket and are tied together, near their ends, with dark brown plant fibre. Basket front has a braid, of naturally coloured plant fibre, interwoven through it, forming a long upside down “U” shape. Towards the top of the “U,” the braid protrudes outward, creating an opening at the top and two loops on either side. The straps thread through the top of the “U” and a small reed (part c) fits through the loop sides, securing the straps in place. Lid is naturally coloured and woven in horizontal chevrons. Has a raised rim, made of rattan(?) strips nailed together. Additional strand tied to frame with dark brown plant fibre. Clear plastic string tied to front centre of lid. Basket straps thread through plastic string, securing lid to basket.
Carrying basket; worn like a backpack, with straps over the shoulders.
Acquired by the donor in 1976-1978, when he lived and worked in Sabah, on the island of Borneo, as a volunteer with CUSO International.