Rwandan Woven Food Tray 1929.329

Christina Brister

Ostentatious and Ordinary: EAC Object Stories

Rwandan Woven Food Tray 1929.329

Christina Brister

Rwandan Woven Food Tray (click here)

A handwoven circular food tray from Rwanda made of natural fibers in brown, tan, and red patterns. — Credit: Tony Carter, CSU College of Arts & Sciences

Image Credit: CMA, Education Art Collection (Object No. 1929.329)

Metadata

Creator

Once Known Tutsi Maker

Date

20th Century

Culture

Tutsi Culture, Rwanda, East Africa

Medium

Twined Plant Fiber

Measurements

Unknown

Credit Line

Cleveland Museum of Art, Gift of Gilpin Players of Karamu House

Description

Woven food tray created from twined plant fibers and produced in the early 20th century.

This object is a handwoven food tray from Rwanda, made using natural fibers and traditional weaving techniques. At first glance, it may appear to be a simple household objects, but it reflects deeper cultural values and practices. In Rwandan culture, woven objects like this tray are often used during communal meals, where food is shared among family and guests. This highlights the importance of togetherness and community in everyday life.

The tray also represents the craftsmanship and skill of Rwandan artisans. Basket weaving is a tradition that has been passed down through generations, requiring patience, precision, and creativity. Each tray is unique, with patterns and colors that can reflect regional styles or personal expression.

In addition to its traditional use, objects like this tray have gained global recognition and are now often used as decorative pieces. This shift shows how cultural items can move beyond their original purpose while still maintaining their significance. This tray is now apart of the Cleveland Museum of Art’s collection, where it is displayed as both a cultural artifact and a work of art.

Overall, this Rwandan food tray represents more than just a tool for serving food. It tells a story of culture, tradition, craftsmanship, and the importance of community.

Fun Fact

Woven trays and baskets are traditionally handmade using techniques passed down through generations and are widely recognized for their intricate design and cultural significance.

StoryMaps

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References:

Smithsonian Institution. (n.d.). African basketry and cultural traditions. https://www.si.edu

UNESCO. (n.d.). Traditional craftsmanship and intangible cultural heritage. https://ich.unesco.org

Cleveland Museum of Art. (n.d.). Collection and object information. https://www.clevelandart.org

Mosley, Whitney. 2025. “Traditional Peace Basket (Agaseke): Researched by Jonathan Kodner – Art History Virtual Exhibition.” Art History Virtual Exhibition. August 18, 2025. https://blogs.missouristate.edu/arthistory/traditional-peace-basket-agaseke-researched-by-jonathan-kodner-2/.

Biro, Yaëlle. 2011. “Tutsi Basketry.” Metmuseum.org. March 2011. http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/tuts/hd_tuts.htm.

Otieno, Millicent. 2022. “The Meaning behind the Patterns on Rwandan Basketry.” Paulski Art . May 31, 2022. https://www.paulskiart.com/blogs/journal/the-meaning-behind-the-patterns-on-rwandan-basketry?srsltid=AfmBOoogcEFcnK-K92JgyktVo6jDZV0J5ccF2SQ6Avnu3ZUmAJoDbiYZ.

Erickson, Alicia. 2020. “Weaving to Peace: The History behind the Iconic Rwanda Peace Basket.” Wanderful – Blog. August 24, 2020. https://blog.sheswanderful.com/all-about-the-rwanda-peace-basket/.

Created by Christina Brister for HIS 455 “Power, Knowledge & Gender” at Cleveland State University, April 2026.

License

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Educate. Analyze. Curate. by Christina Brister is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted.