[Curiosities] Indigenous basketry, an ancestral weaving

[Noticias ALEJANDRO]

It can be classified into different types and that leads us to talk about the powerful materials used for its production, which vary according to the techniques used. Some of the most common are vegetable fiber basketwork, palm basketwork, wicker basketwork, liana basketwork and moriche basketwork. Each type of basket weaving requires specific skills and traditional knowledge, the use of different species of palms is very common. These palms are carefully selected according to their physical characteristics and durability, to ensure the quality and resistance of the baskets. Other of the most used palms are the straw toquilla in Ecuador, the chiquichique in Venezuela, the chonta in Peru and Colombia, and the iraq in Mexico. The importance of indigenous basketry in Latin America goes beyond being an art form. For indigenous communities, basketry is a source of economic income and sustenance for their families. Furthermore, it is a means to preserve their cultural identity and keep their traditions alive. Through basket weaving, indigenous communities can transmit knowledge and values to new generations, thus strengthening their social cohesion. Its cultural legacy transcends borders and has been recognized around the world. This art form has been the subject of anthropological and archaeological studies, contributing to the understanding of indigenous cultures and their relationship with the natural environment. Likewise, indigenous basketry has participated in international exhibitions and events, carrying with it the cultural wealth of Latin America and showing the world the skill and creativity of indigenous artisans.

 

 

Among all the manifestations of indigenous basket weaving on the continent, there is one in particular that has significantly impacted the region: plant fiber basket weaving. This type of basketry stands out for its versatility and beauty, being used to make baskets, bags, hats and various decorative objects. Vegetable fiber basket weaving has been recognized for its artistic and technical quality, becoming one of the main cultural expressions of the continent. In Venezuela, indigenous basketry has an origin before the arrival of the conquistadors, but has been influenced by the technical knowledge brought by the Spanish and Africans. These influences have led to the diversity of materials and uses of objects that have been preserved to this day. The fusion of cultures has enriched and diversified the techniques used, as well as the use of materials. In general, the Venezuelan people have adopted basketry as an artisanal expression, along with other art forms. The learning of indigenous techniques and the use of natural fibers, soft, flexible and hard, has given rise to a wide variety of objects. Among the indigenous people best known for their basket weaving are: The Yekuana, the Yanomami, the Kurripaco (Wakúenai), the Warao, the Panare, the Piaroa, the Kariñas and the Wayuu.

 

 

This cultural treasure in Latin America has stood the test of time and has adapted to contemporary realities. Basket weaving has a deep meaning for ancestral peoples, since it is closely related to their cosmogony and vision of the world. For indigenous people in general, the act of weaving represents the perpetuation of life in communion with the land. The intertwining of the fibers symbolizes the multiplication, growth and conservation of life.

 

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