Taghkanic Friendship Basket
Taghkanic basket makers called these "Fruit Baskets", but over the years they have acquired the name of "Friendship Baskets", being used to carry cookies and other treats to friends when visiting. They are the same basket as the more typical round bottom, swing handle basket, but the body is just not as tall. They were made in many different sizes. The handles are double fixed overhead handles lashed together at the top, resulting in a basket that is very stable in spite of its fragile appearance. This particular basket, made of brown ash is 12 1/2" in diameter and 2 1/2" high. (9 1/2" high to the top of the handle).
The construction of the Friendship basket handle, except for being more delicate, is like any other Taghkanic Basket . . . a fixed overhead handle, being single notched with the shelves below the notches being characteristically blocky. The crisscrossed lashing helps hold the handles securely in place at the rim and spreading the base of the handles sturdies the basket and prevents racking (loosening).
The rim construction is like any other Taghkanic Basket in that it is double wrapped and wider than high. The kicked in bottom and tapering ribs are typical and, in this case we even have the "knot" where it was tied off. While the "tie" is not always there, Taconic baskets have a recognizable look, regardless of size and shape. The overall condition is super and the patina is wonderful! They just made a basket one way, and that was their signature. In any event, this sturdy basket is a masterpiece of basket making and deserves a place of honor in any basket collection. It should be noted that Taghkanic/Takonic Baskets are often confused with Shaker Baskets due to the fine craftsmanship, but they are entirely handmade, unlike Shaker Baskets which were made on a mold. The condition is excellent. No apologies here! Circa 1900, New York State. $1050.00 R25B28184
Questions? Ask the Ferret!
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