Samburu Beaded Gourd Container with Leather Straps Kenya

The Samburu, a sub-tribe of the Maasai in north-central Kenya, are semi-nomadic pastoralists known for their intricate craftwork, notably their use of gourd containers adorned with leather straps. Gourds, durable fruit shells, serve as storage for water and milk, decorated with intricate designs using natural dyes. Leather straps, intricately braided and knotted, both decorate the containers and enhance portability. These pieces showcase depictions of Samburu culture—animals, plants, and cultural elements—crafted through traditional methods passed down through generations. Still utilized today, these gourd containers remain prized for their functionality and allure, sought after by collectors globally. This artful fusion of functionality and cultural expression serves as a striking testament to the Samburu's rich heritage and their mastery of merging artistry with everyday life.