Werrengue palm baskets and trays are hand woven by the Wounaan women of the Choco rainforest in western Colombia. They live in small isolated communities along the San Juan River near the isolated Pacific Coast. Hand made basket weaving is a traditional Wounaan practice, both utilitarian and artistic.The original coiled baskets were of natural color and used primarily for storage.The brilliant new designs with elaborate iconography can take up to three months to complete and require enormous skill and artistry. Each design is the creation of the weaver and is one of a kind.

Many Wounaan have fled their indigenous lands in the Choco, due to persistent violence, moved to the city, or migrated up the west coast to Panama.   The community in Panama has dominated the market for these fine baskets.  Land use, drugs, and militia conflicts have resulted in isolation of the Colombian Wounaan.  This group of weavers or about 50-75 members, remains in a small indigenous reserve on the San Juan River.  Selling these baskets is the only means of financial support for them.