An early 20th c. picnic basket in original tannin dyed finish.
The body is comprised of the long-standing tradition of plaited design being woven of carefully chosen splint oak around a robust sleletal system of oak wood bands and secured using copper wire, a preventive measure ensuring structural capability after long exposure to oxygen and the elements. The handle is immaculately woven with an uncommonly seen three rib system around the oak handle.
Two woven lids are attached at the top using a pine wood bar running width wise across and are attached with bent forged nails. The lids are kept in place via two shaved oak wood pegs, each shaped with a tapered body for securing the lids.
Remains in superlative original condition with a superb undisturbed surface with quality color. Picnic baskets of this era are rarely found surviving in such pristine condition. A gem to collectors seeking high quality in esrly basketry. 
Shenandoah Valley origin. Ca. 1900-1915. 17 1/2"W x 12"D x 13 1/2"T.