Larger screens of this type, called “Insika”, are made of cane and reed fibers, dyed with natural black dye. This is a small, reproduction, made for sale. Those this one represents date from the early to mid-20th century. They, like this one, were made and used by the Tutsi people in Rwanda. The Tutsi, in both Rwanda and Burundi, use basketry of this type, in a large variety of forms - including receptacles and architectural elements - as their principal form of artistic expression. Screens are used among the wealthier Tutsi, especially the chiefs, as wall decorations and room dividers, depending on their size.

This screen measures: 19 x 12" (48 x 30 cm)