A rare 19th c. Taghkanic swing handled feather basket in as-descended condition. 
Constructed entirely from ash wood. Worked from the ground up, the base consists of a typical spoke design being the basis for vertical stanners. A concave form allows for proper weight distribution when filled. A bulbous curvilinear profile tapers and terminates at the top with double rim ribs and wrapped securely by two overlapping coil rim wraps. 
An especially pleasing characteristic is the entire upper opening. Two small hand cut, shaved and scraped D-ring inserts are woven into the body. A hand carved handle with block ends and pierced holes accepts the D-rings and features very distinct kerf marks, a workin trait amongst Taghkanic basket makers.
Retains ideal surface elements. Conditions of use and age against its superb condition lend testament to the elite craftsmanship of basketry amongst Taghkanic basketmakers. 
Feather collecting baskets in swing handled form are rare in Taghkanic basketry for unknown reasons. Construction techniques covered in Martha Weatherbee's book "Legend of the Bushwacker Basket" follow suit with this basket for proper attribution. Only the second one I have ever seen or handled. In conjunction with fine condition, this basket is a choice candidate for the very experienced collector. 
Taghkanic region of NY. Ca. 1875. 11"