Iraca Raffia: The Art of Colombian Handweaving Behind Cartagena
The Art of Hand-Braided Iraca: The Story Behind the Cartagena Basket Bag
At Mauska, every piece begins with craftsmanship.
The Cartagena basket bag is born from the collaboration between Colombian artisans specialized in hand-braided iraca weaving and master leather craftsmen from Ubrique, where every leather detail is finished by hand using traditional techniques.
Designed to combine functionality, timeless design, and artisanal excellence, Cartagena is created to accompany everyday life while preserving the beauty of objects made slowly and with intention.
Its interior features a removable pouch crafted from vegetable-tanned Italian leather, designed to be used both inside the bag or independently as a clutch.
Hand-Braided Iraca in Colombia
Iraca is a natural fiber traditionally handwoven in Colombia using techniques passed down through generations.
Each basket bag requires hours of meticulous manual work, making every piece subtly unique. The artisanal weaving provides both structure and flexibility while preserving the organic character of the natural fiber.
Small irregularities and variations are part of the beauty of the handcrafted process and reflect the human touch behind every creation.
A Natural Texture Impossible to Replicate Industrially
Unlike industrial materials, handwoven iraca possesses depth, texture, and a natural sense of movement.
Each pattern reflects the rhythm of manual weaving, creating a living surface impossible to reproduce mechanically.
The combination of lightness, durability, and sophistication makes iraca one of the most exceptional natural materials in contemporary craftsmanship.
Vegetable-Tanned Italian Leather and Craftsmanship in Ubrique
The iraca body is combined with handles and details crafted from vegetable-tanned Italian leather and handcrafted in Ubrique, Spain.
Vegetable tanning uses natural tannins instead of synthetic finishes, allowing the leather to age uniquely and develop a natural patina over time.
Each handle is handmade and finished with hand-stitched detailing.
The custom metal hardware features Mauska’s signature triangular shape, designed exclusively for the brand and specially developed for the Cartagena collection.
Discover also our article about craftsmanship in Ubrique and how our bags are made:
How Luxury Bags Are Crafted in Ubrique.
An Interior Pouch Designed to Accompany You Beyond the Bag
Inside the Cartagena, a removable pouch handcrafted from vegetable-tanned Italian leather is included.
Designed with the same attention to detail as the bag’s handles and finishes, the pouch can be used both inside the basket bag or independently as a clutch.
Its design features a leather tassel adorned with Mauska’s metallic signature symbol, adding a functional yet distinctive detail.
Created to organize and protect everyday essentials, the pouch makes Cartagena an even more versatile piece.
Designed for Everyday Life
Beyond craftsmanship, Cartagena is designed to accompany everyday life with comfort and functionality.
Its spacious silhouette allows you to carry daily essentials with ease while maintaining an elegant and lightweight structure.
The balance between natural materials, artisanal details, and functionality makes Cartagena a bag designed for travel, work, or enjoying summer with effortless sophistication.
Discover the Cartagena Collection
Hand-Braided Iraca in Colombia. Handcrafted Finishing in Spain.