19th-Century French Handwoven Oak Harvest Basket

Details

Description

A remarkable large-scale 19th-century French harvest basket, handwoven from oak splints and retaining its original animal-hide reinforcement along the underside … Read more A remarkable large-scale 19th-century French harvest basket, handwoven from oak splints and retaining its original animal-hide reinforcement along the underside and lower sides. The tall, gently tapered form is constructed with an irregular open weave, a substantial reinforced rim, and beautifully weathered oak that has developed a rich, timeworn patina. Particularly interesting is the surviving hide, an evocative detail of the basket's original utilitarian construction.

The oak has mellowed into a wonderful combination of warm brown, soft gray, and deeper earthy tones, while the handwoven structure reveals the individual character of each splint. The aged hide, with its natural texture and visible wear, adds another layer of authenticity to this substantial piece of French rural craftsmanship. Its generous proportions and sculptural silhouette make it as compelling as a decorative object as it once was a practical agricultural vessel.

An exceptional accent for an English country house, French farmhouse, or thoughtfully collected traditional interior. Place it beside a stone fireplace for kindling or lightweight logs, in a garden room among antique terracotta pots, or in an entrance hall where its weathered surface provides a handsome contrast to polished antique furniture. Equally attractive left empty, allowing the craftsmanship and remarkable patina to take center stage.

Details:
Period: 19th century
Origin: France, attributed
Style: French Country, English Country, Primitive, Rustic, Americana
Dimensions: 19"W × 19"D × 26.5"H
Materials: Handwoven oak splints, animal hide
Finish: Naturally weathered oak with warm brown and gray tones.
Construction: Handwoven splint body with reinforced rim and surviving animal-hide reinforcement.
Condition: Good antique condition, with wear, irregularities, and age-related deterioration to the weaving and hide consistent with its age and utilitarian history. Please examine photographs for details.
Suggested Uses: Decorative fireside basket, garden room display, entryway accent, or sculptural floor basket. See less