Early to Mid-20th Century Handwoven Rattan & Bamboo Storage Basket with Wrapped Handles, c. 1930–1950
Viridian Eclection
The PieceA substantial, handwoven rattan and bamboo basket featuring a deep square profile, double-loop handles, and a richly toned patina developed over decades of use. The craftsmanship points to...
The Piece
A substantial, handwoven rattan and bamboo basket featuring a deep square profile, double-loop handles, and a richly toned patina developed over decades of use. The craftsmanship points to Southeast Asian origin—most likely Philippine or Indonesian, c. 1930–1950—where tightly woven utilitarian baskets of this scale were used for rice storage, tea transport, or market goods. Its tactile weave and variation in tone speak to the handmade nature of the work—each strand of rattan split, softened, and woven in alternating chevron and cross-hatch patterns for both strength and symmetry.
Design & Construction
→ Form & Style:
Tapered square form with a broad mouth and reinforced rim banded in bamboo splints. The lower section displays a herringbone weave, transitioning to a tighter open-cross weave at the shoulder—an intentional pattern shift that balances flexibility and rigidity. Double handles are hand-bent and wrapped in coiled cane for durability and ease of grip.
→ Material:
Natural rattan and split bamboo with darkened lacquered finish. The two-tone coloration—warm umber base with near-ebony rim—appears original and reflects oxidation of the natural cane fibers.
Provenance & Period
Likely Philippines or Java, Indonesia, early to mid-20th century. These baskets were often made by village cooperatives or cottage workshops and traded through coastal ports. The precision and heavier gauge rattan suggest a utilitarian piece elevated by careful finishing—a workaday object made beautiful through proportion and craft.
Placement & Styling
Use as a sculptural accent in entryways, living spaces, or covered patios; ideal for storing throws, magazines, or kindling. Its organic weave and rich patina pair well with both modern rustic and minimalist interiors, providing texture and visual grounding.
Every piece is packed with professional-grade materials: multiple foam layers, double-boxing, directional and fragile handling labels. For large furniture we use custom timber crating. We photograph packing before dispatch and can provide images on request.
White-glove delivery is complimentary within 100 miles of Reno, NV. National shipping quotes provided at checkout. All shipments are photographed and documented. Damage claims must be filed with the carrier; we provide all documentation needed to support your claim.
Local pickup is available at Viridian HQ (Reno, NV) with 2–4 days notice. Contact us to arrange. Visit the Eclection on Tuesdays, 10 am to 4 pm.
All antique and vintage items are sold as described and all sales are final. Each listing includes detailed condition notes and photographs so you can make a fully informed decision. We encourage buyers to ask questions — about condition, dimensions, finish, provenance — before purchasing.
Antiques are irreplaceable and one-of-a-kind. Carrier handling is outside our control once a piece has left our facility, and major carriers including FedEx do not insure antiques. We do everything within our power to ensure safe transit, but cannot accept liability for carrier damage. If damage occurs in transit, we will provide full documentation to support your carrier claim.
Have a question? — we're happy to provide additional photos, condition detail, or discuss the piece directly.
