Featured Possibly Maine NA basket??

I purchased this basket for 10.00 from a lady that said it was possibly Native American and from Maine. From my research it seems to be a porcupine type weave but not sure. The weave is very fine, the lining is silk. Unusual box shape, measures 6" by 2 1/2" high. I would like to know any information about this basket. My first post, thanks for any assistance.

 

Hi @Dorothy D. and WELCOME to ANTIQUERS!! You didn't mention a size, but am wondering if a sewing basket possibly.....I cannot speak to if it's maybe NA or not though......others should be along later or tomorrow....keep checking back!! It looks nicely made....except for the one broken piece visible on the inside on the lid frame.....

 

Thanks so much for your comments and for pointing out that flaw. I never noticed that. I added a picture with ruler for scale. The box is 6" by 2 1/2" high.

 

Maine...don't use cane...

sorry....not 1st nations from North America ....



this is though..

 

and this........porcupine twist..

 

Welcome, @Dorothy D. It is an interesting little box, probably for jewelry or other trinkets. As @komokwa said, the materials used in your box are different from the materials used by Native Americans in their traditional basketry. The framework of your box appears to be made of cane/rattan, a type of climbing vine palm which is common in Asian basketry. Northeast Native American basketry is made from split hardwoods such as black ash. The use of metal nails and fittings also is not typical of Native American basketry.

I cannot tell what material has been used for the decorative folded elements on the top and sides of your box - perhaps split rattan - but it is an interesting technique that I have not seen before. So I cannot say for sure where it was made. But I would guess it is from somewhere in Asia, such as China, Southeast Asia, or the Philippines.

 

Thanks so much for taking time to respond to my question. You have all been very helpful and kind.