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Large Split Oak American Spale Gathering Basket

About the Item

Vintage or antique oversized basket in a traditional spale shape features a bent wood ring rim with handles on each side. The basket is formed of a split oak with graphic weave pattern. Spale, or oak swale, is a traditional basket shape used in Britain and Scotland since 1800s; it was originally used for gathering during crop harvesting, or for domestic use, such as various household storage of blankets, throw pillows, and other bulky items, log storage in fireplace area, or storage of seeds and gardening supplies. Spale baskets were made in various sizes; the size was usually described by basket's length. The basket is in good vintage condition with expected, age-appropriate minor signs of wear that add to its authenticity, character, and charm. It was conservatively dated to early 20th century, but it could have been made as early as late 19th century. A great sculptural shape and organic, natural color palette make this piece a perfect option for either storage or purely decorative purposes. Hand-crafted and highly decorative, the basket can seamlessly integrate into a variety of home settings, from Traditional to Contemporary, Modern Country, Collected, Organic Modern, Transitional, Coastal, or Modernist. Provenance: The basket was acquired from the estate of Thomas Muir Wilson, the renowned photographer and graphic designer, based in Rochester, NY. Wilson worked as the designer of exhibition galleries at George Eastman House Museum of Photography in 1961-62, Art professor and instructor in Photography and Graphic Design at Minneapolis School of Art, Photography instructor at Rochester Institute of Technology, and instructor in Sculpture & Design at Nazareth College in Rochester, NY. He formed Craft World Tours, taking people on themed excursions around the globe; during his travels, he amassed a spectacular collection of amazing items from all over the world, with the emphasis on Naive and Folk Art and traditional arts and crafts, including pottery, baskets, paintings, and textiles. We will be offering multiple pieces from his highly curated collection in separate listings.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 9.5 in (24.13 cm)Width: 19.75 in (50.17 cm)Depth: 22 in (55.88 cm)
  • Style:
    Folk Art (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    early 20 Century
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    Clifton Springs, NY
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU4421144962432