Abstract
In the light of the Binfordian theoretical perspective of material culture, the present paper aims to understand the three dimensions of carrying bamboo basket of Kabui (the Kabui are also called Rongmei) tribe of Manipur, viz. a) utilitarian, that is, instrumental linked to its function (technomic), b) social (sociotechnic) and c) ideational relating to symbolism and social meaning (ideotechnic) of the appliance. Carrying baskets form one of the most diverse bamboo and cane-based crafts. The Kabuis of Manipur (especially the hill dwellers) produce some of the finest carrying baskets (Ka) with variation in design, size, shape and types of weave, which can be consociated with people’s perceptions of the environment, modes of economic interaction, and division of labour, particularly by gender. The technological significance of Kabui carrying baskets entails their weave patterns like wickerwork, cross weft, and diagonal or twilled, where significant relations of the pattern and design with age and sex of the carrier or user are observed.
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