Gurage
Basketry Table with Lid (Mesob)
Gurage, Mid-20th century
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Gurage
Basketry Table with Lid (Mesob)
Gurage, Mid-20th century
Physical Qualities
Plant fiber, hide, 17 11/16 × 29 1/8 in. (45 × 74 cm.)
Credit Line
Gift of Alfred Peter Murphy, Colchester, Vermont
Object Number
1997.119a-b
Ethiopian meals often take place around a woven-fiber table upon which the food is served. Removing the table’s lid, a host places a layer of injera (fermented flatbread) upon the table. Onto the injera, the host ladles out portions of fragrantly seasoned meats, greens, and lentils. Guests serve themselves by tearing off pieces of injera and using it to scoop up small servings. Baskets are an important component of a bride’s dowry. Historically, Ethiopian brides crafted their own baskets, but today most brides purchase them from basket makers.
Acquired c. 1971 on the road to Jimma, Ethiopia.
Nichole Bridges, The Baltimore Museum of Art, "Hand Held: Personal Arts from Africa," Sept. 25, 2011-Feb. 5, 2012.
Frederick John Lamp, "See the Music Hear the Dance: Rethinking African Art at the Baltimore Museum of Art." New York: Prestel, 2003, p.265, ill.
Visit Baltimore.org. Promotion for "Hand Held: Personal Arts from Africa" (September 25, 2011-February 5, 2012. December 30, 2011.
