M'Mawa Woven Wall Basket Art

There’s something strangely satisfying about watching a pattern work its way outward.

Handwoven by skilled artisans in Malawi, its fine strands of natural Ilala palm radiate outward in increasingly larger rings, a pattern inspired by the morning sun. The effect is somewhere between traditional basketry and sculpture, with enough texture and variation in the weave to remind you that every one of those concentric lines had to pass through somebody’s hands. It has enough presence to hang alone or can be grouped with other woven pieces for the kind of wall that looks collected rather than decorated. Each one is made by hand, so small variations in the weave are inevitable and, frankly, preferable.

The Details

• Handwoven wall basket
• Natural Ilala palm
• Morning sun-inspired radial weave
• Small: approx. 20" diameter
• Large: approx. 35.5" diameter
• Each piece will vary slightly
• Handmade by skilled artisans in Malawi

About the Brand:  People of the Sun

A traditional craft has a much better chance of surviving when people can still make a living doing it. People of the Sun is a Malawi-based social enterprise working with artisan groups whose skills in weaving, carving, and furniture making have been passed down through generations. The organization pairs that knowledge with contemporary design, business training, resources, and access to wider markets, allowing traditional techniques to keep evolving rather than becoming something people only talk about preserving. The artisans bring the craft. Designers bring new ideas. Somewhere in the middle, objects like the M’Mawa emerge. Turns out the best way to keep a tradition alive is to give it somewhere new to go.