Superb Nantucket-inspired woven basket, adorned with a carved ivory medallion, characteristic of the famous artisanal baskets made by the sailors of the Nantucket lightships in Massachusetts.
Condition and special features
- Carved ivory medallion present (slightly chipped on one piece)
- Ivory clasp and leather strap missing
- Long leather strap slightly damaged
- Very decorative, ideal for a Cape Cod or Nantucket style interior
The history of Nantucket baskets
Nantucket baskets originated aboard lightships that dotted the shallow waters and reefs of the American East Coast, where permanent lighthouses could not be built. During their long periods of isolation at sea, sailors developed this meticulous craft, giving rise to a tradition that today makes the island famous.
Sturdy and practical, these woven baskets were used in shops, workshops, and homes on the island. With Nantucket's transition from a whaling economy to a tourist economy in the 1860s, they became prized collectibles and iconic souvenirs.
An authentic decorative piece
While this basket is inspired by traditional Nantucket baskets, it does not possess all their typical characteristics (wooden base, rigid handle, wooden slat frame). Nevertheless, it remains a high-quality decorative antique piece, perfect for bringing the elegance of Cape Cod villas into your home.