A 19th c. Shenandoah Valley melon basket in period correct red over original red paint. 
Constructed of white oak, likely in its entirety. The design is focused around traditional design with the skeleton comprised of two thick ribs comprising the handle and rim and joined at a central point.  Lashings and small carved ribs form the body with a half round profile, woven neatly and structurally sound. 
Thick red paint engulfs the entire basket on the interior and exterior, without a single area left unpainted. Over a hundred years of time has created an undeniably wonderful effect of crazing and craquelure to the paint with historic elements present.
Superb original condition. Structurally sound and extremely solid when held in hand.
Shenandoah Valley. Ca. 1880. 8"W x 6 1/2"T.