Small Melon-Shaped Basket
in Vivid Paint      

An eye-catching woodsplint basket distinguished by its vibrant mustard-yellow paint, beautifully rounded form, and small size. American, probably Northeast, ca. late 19th century.

Tightly woven, with a delicately wrapped rim and sophisticated bundling where the handle is affixed to the sides. Fine overall condition despite an old split/small loss along one edge of the handle.

About 6 ¼ inches to the top of the handle, 3 1/8 to the rim, and about 6 inches longest side of the base. See David Schorsch "American Baskets, A Folk Art Tradition", figure 21 for a similar example. From a fine northeast collection.