Long live the generous banana tree in this plaided basket.
Looking back, it seems intuitive to us that bananas would be one of the most consumed foods in the world, but we had no idea that each banana plant only bears fruit once in its lifetime.
Once. A single. Time. That's right.
After giving us food products, most of the plant - the banana plant is a herbaceous plant of the Musa genus - is replaced and wasted. Fortunately, something different is happening in S. Miguel, Azores, Portugal. That's where Vanessa’s MUSAZ explores the artisanal uses of such a generous plant, which is also territory for ants, spiders, and caterpillars. It's all about fibre. Fibre from the plants, from Vanessa's arms, from her soul. She is an entire forest.
Her team is made up of a few family members and friends, with experienced hands in certain craft areas, who have been learning about the specificities of working with the banana plant. Together, they hand-weave this Round Plaided Basket, using fibres from the banana plant stalks, following a process of manual extraction, drying, and gentle cleaning of the fibre.
For the final product, they manage to obtain different colours and textures, depending on the properties of the banana plant used. This basket is finished with the application of a blend of beeswax and camellia oil, both produced in the Azores.
Frequently asked questions
What is this piece?
Hand-woven basket by Musaz from banana stem fibre grown in S. Miguel, Azores, finished with Azorean beeswax and camellia oil.
Which region is it from?
It comes from Açores, in Portugal. At Ra-Ro, every piece is tied to its origin and to the territory where it is made.
Who makes this piece?
It is made by Musaz, the producer Ra-Ro works with directly for this piece.
What technique is used?
This piece is made using the Empreita technique.
Are all pieces identical?
As a handmade piece, it may vary slightly from one example to another. That variation is part of its authenticity.
Do you ship worldwide?
Yes, Ra-Ro ships worldwide.
How do returns work?
You have 14 days for a free return.
Is payment secure?
Yes, all payments are processed securely and encrypted.
Diameter > 24 cm
Height > 12 cm
Cleaning
Gently remove dust using a dry, soft cloth or a vacuum cleaner brush attachment.
Avoid using water or wet cleaning methods.
Moisture
Keep the piece away from excessively damp environments or standing water to prevent mold.
Sunlight
Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, which can cause the natural fibre colours to fade over time.
Handling
Handle with care to avoid fraying or tearing the natural woven fibres.
