Circa 1992 Fabulously Large White Oak Storage / Picnic Basket, Cannon County Tennessee

Excellent Pre-Owned Condition.

Beautifully handcrafted white oak storage or picnic basket handwoven in the Cannon County, Tennessee basketry tradition, one of the oldest and most respected Anglo American basketry traditions in the United States. This beauty hails from 1992 and is signed with the initials of the basket artisan on the underside. The irregularities and variations in color and texture of this basket are characteristics of the wood and the natural aging process, adding to its natural beauty. The basket artisan employed several weaving patterns which provides gorgeous visual and textural interest. The lashing with which the lid is attached and which is employed in other areas of the basket, as accents, I believe to be hickory wood as noted by the slight difference in grain and color from the basket’s white oak splint; bent wood handles are also white oak. Substantial in size, there are endless possibilities on where you can place this beauty in your space; from decorative accent to a storage basket to keep things tucked away but close at hand or for use as a picnic basket. It measures 12” high (handles not included) x 20” x 11½” W/D; interior 15½” x 11” x 10½” x W/D/H; weight 1 lb. 13 oz. In excellent condition with minimal age-appropriate wear. As noted in photo 3, the top/lid is slightly raised from the wood shrinking (wood shrinks over time) which does not affect its beauty or utility. Of note, the bent wood handles do not slide easily up and down which is not unusual for this type of handle. Just take your time when sliding the handles to open the lid and all will be well. From one basket collector to another, it’s hard not to be drawn to its natural beauty!

Thanks for looking!