Kentucky Burley Tobacco Basket With Original Red Rim, Horse Cave, C. 1880-1910

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A monumental Southern folk art tobacco basket hand-woven from split white oak, originating from Horse Cave, Kentucky, a historic center … Read more A monumental Southern folk art tobacco basket hand-woven from split white oak, originating from Horse Cave, Kentucky, a historic center of burley tobacco production. Dating to the late 19th-early 20th century, this basket exemplifies the sculptural utility, while reflecting the practical ingenuity and handmade tradition of rural America.

The basket features a square form with steam-bent rounded corners, reinforced by a traditional X-braced base and finished with an original red-painted rim, a distinctive and highly sought-after regional characteristic. Remnants of white stenciled markings, likely indicating the burley grading or farm identification, remain visible along the rim, adding layered surface interest and authenticity.

Constructed from hand-split oak slats, the basket displays the irregularity, patina, and wear expected of a working agricultural object, now elevated through time into a compelling piece of American vernacular folk art. The weathered surface, softened edges and visible losses speak to decades of use and contribute to its sculptural presence.

For those with discriminating tastes in Americana and/or Southern folk art pieces, this is definitely a piece to take a moment and review. See less