Nomadic Camel Milking Baskets with Red Beads

These striking rare baskets are woven by Samburu and Rendille women in remote northern Kenya. Called “nomadic baskets,” the baskets are styled for the modern home but based on traditional designs used for the storage of camel’s milk.

Nomadic baskets are sold in three useful nesting sizes and are dotted with red beads. Because these baskets are handcrafted, each will vary slightly.

Each basket is tightly knit and is designed to last a lifetime. Sold individually.

Approximate measurements: [L] 7″D x 5″T [M] 5.5″D x 4″T [S] 4.5″D x 4″T.

About the Artisans:

For the pastoral communities of northern Kenya, life pivots on the coming of rain and the survival of livestock. When the skies open, the landscape becomes lush and fragrant. Cattle and goats drink and forage near home and families stay together. In times of drought, warriors must travel far to find water for their herds, leaving women and children at home alone to endure dry seasons of unknown length as the streams, earth and trees dry around them.

Where they were once only allowed to own milk, Samburu women now own camels, plus they earn income by making baskets, processing meat and hides, keeping bees and refining honey. Through this shift in property control and a general increase in literacy in the region, Samburu women have become valued contributing community members.