Lot 234: Miniature Woven Splint Basket with Lid

Description

A charming miniature woven basket, 3.5" tall, in a rounded, barrel-like form with a fitted lid and a twisted, rope-like carrying loop at top. The body is tightly woven from thin splint or reed strips in a warm natural tan, with the lid finished in a crossed-spoke pattern visible from the underside. A cord and toggle closure loops around the body to secure the lid in place. Small woven splint baskets like this one were made in a number of North American and other basketry traditions as decorative or trinket-holding curios, often sold as souvenir or gift items; the specific origin of this example is not confirmed. It's a nice tactile piece for collectors of miniature baskets or folk craft items, and functional enough to hold small trinkets or jewelry.

Condition Report:

Good vintage condition, wear commensurate with age. The weaving is intact throughout with no notable breaks or losses. The cord closure shows some fraying and wear, and there is minor separation/looseness in a few splint ends near the rim (see photos). The lid fits securely. Light overall soiling consistent with age.

Keywords:

Miniature woven basket, splint basket with lid, small lidded basket, folk craft basket, decorative miniature basket, woven trinket basket, collectible basketry, handwoven miniature, tribal style basket, vintage basket collectible

Dimensions: H: 3.5", W: 2.5"