Women throughout the Lower Congo region use this type of basket for transporting all sorts of materials, from fire kindling to cassava leaves and more, as they walk between field, market, and home. Designs vary greatly. This particular basket features open warps with evenly spaced woven bands and a diamond-patterned rim. Most essential is the basic construction that allows a woman to carry loads while keeping her hands free. The basket’s attenuated base and internal cane frame allow an exterior strap to support the basket along the woman’s shoulders and back. The strap is wrapped around the basket and suspended from the wearer’s head.