Madagascar, Tanana, 'Sokatra' Tortoise Placemat

Inspired by Madagascar’s endangered tortoise species, the 'Sokatra' Tortoise Placemat set* features an artistic pattern reflecting the island’s remarkable wildlife. Loom-woven in raffia and relief-dyed by local artisans, the rich dark pattern is created by immersing hand-bound cloth in dye baths made with leaves from the Harungana ‘dragon’s blood’ tree. The dye baths are powered by invasive plants as a source of renewable energy, adding an ecological dimension to the making process.

Made slowly by hand, each pair carries subtle variations in colour, texture and pattern, reflecting the natural materials and techniques used in its creation. The placemats bring together Madagascar’s distinctive fauna and plant life with the island’s textile heritage, adding a natural touch to the table.

Dimensions: 36 × 48 cm
Materials: Raffia (Raphia farinifera), naturally dyed with leaf dye from the Harungana ‘dragon’s blood’ tree (Harungana madagascariensis)
Production time: Ready to be dispatched within 10 weeks

*This is a set of 2 placemats.