England, Hilary Burns, Harvest Basket

A willow basket suitable for collecting produce. This technique, a frame basket made on a hoop and rib construction is very old and traditional in northern Europe. The form is also found in N. America where settlers took the technique. It is a slow-to-make basket, not generally made commercially but by artisans or travellers for their own use. The basket framework is steam bent from two year old willow rods, the ribs that form the body of the basket are also split from heavy rods. The weaving is done using whole willow rods that are graded, thicker ones in the centre of the basket are split and shaved. The 'god's eye' that holds the handle hoop and top frame in place is traditional and is made from split and shaved willow rods. Dimensions 35cm x 32cm x H32cm. Despatch time 8 weeks. Made to order