A coiled oval basket of boat-shaped form, meticulously hand-woven using natural plant fibers. The basket features a thick coiled foundation, likely sweetgrass or pine needles, bound with a contrasting dark brown split-root or bark wrapping in a spaced coiling technique. It rises from a distinct, raised oval footed base to a gently flared rim, showcasing a rustic, organic texture and warm tonal variations.

• Dimensions: 18” L × 5.5” H

Historical & Style Details

• Artist / Maker: Unknown
• Period: likely Early to Mid-20th Century
• Material / Technique: Coiled basketry, hand-woven
• Materials: Natural plant fibers (possibly sweetgrass, straw, or pine needles, bound with split root or bark)
• Decorative Details: Oval form with a distinct raised foot rim and flared lip
• Colour & Surface: Variegated natural light brown and dark brown tones
• Condition: Good vintage condition overall; minor fraying and wear to the fibers consistent with age, structurally sound

History

Coiled basketry is one of the oldest and most widespread textile techniques, utilized by indigenous cultures worldwide as well as traditional European rural crafters. This particular oval, footed form is characteristic of utilitarian baskets used for gathering, bread-serving, or domestic storage. The combination of a bundled fiber core with split-root or bark binding reflects a deep connection to local forest and field resources, highly prized by collectors of rustic decorative arts and ethnographic craft.