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Even before the emergence of the Incas, Peruvians have been practicing the art of basketry. The making of each basket took hours of patience, skillful eye and handwork. The rush straw used was carefully selected, looking for the right length and elasticity to be adapted for different uses, yet to have the strength to hold considerable weight. Only after completely drying the rush, the straws were painted with natural dyes- dyes that are the hallmark of Peruvian baskets. These baskets were used as storage containers; as bags for carrying tools, toys, and home supplies; as food trays or fruit bowls; or just as items for decoration and display.
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Now days, Peruvian basket makers continue hand weaving with the same principles used by their forefathers, making each basket full of Peruvian cultural flavor but adapted to new utilitarian, recreational, and artistic purposes.
It is still not uncommon to see shoppers in the major cities of Peru with their market basket in their hands ready for carrying groceries.
We hope that the introduction of these baskets to the United States market and other foreign lands will continue to preserve our basketry culture. - Native Peruvian Representative
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