Small Oval Openwork Wicker Basket

Small oval openwork wicker baskets, constructed with twisted rope handles and a woven base.  The time and expert technique it takes to weave each diminutive basket, as well as the rarity of small, peeled willow, make them a little luxury.

These are authentic, traditional French baskets, made entirely by hand in France.  The basketmaker is passionate about creating natural and delicate objects with a timeless design. She uses only the highest quality willow cultivated in France by equally passionate willow farmers. The lightness and delicacy of her baskets belie their strength; they are crafted to be functional as well as decorative.

The quality of the willow truly sets these baskets apart.  To achieve their beautiful vanilla color, freshly harvested willow bunches are submerged in water at the beginning of winter and removed in the spring.  The bark is then peeled off and the willow is dried in the sun for a few days and stored in darkness for six months.  It is this long, entirely natural process, which allows true French willow to achieve its beautiful color and famous quality.  Inferior quality baskets are made in factories using willow peeled while hot and bleached with chemicals, which damages the willow and makes it matte.  A varnish is then applied to give it the luster that comes naturally to our baskets. 

With proper care, your willow basket will have a very long life and, over time, take on a lovely, golden patina.  Dust and clean if necessary with soapy water and a soft brush, then rinse with clear water and air dry immediately.  Do not soak.

8" x 6" x 5.25" (top of handle)*

Handmade from white willow in France

*Due to their handmade nature, sizes may vary slightly