This is a beautiful vintage Chinese gathering basket, crafted from woven natural fibers and has a warm, earthy tone. The basket has a classic, rounded, somewhat squat form, widening towards the top before gently curving inward to the rim. The weave appears to be a tight, uniform pattern, showcasing skilled craftsmanship.
A sturdy, arched handle, possibly made from a bent piece of wood, is integrated into the basket's design, secured with a natural fiber lashing. This handle suggests it was meant for practical use, easy to carry.
Tucked inside the basket is a small, natural fiber broom, its bristles appearing dry and whisk-like, and its handle wrapped in a similar natural material. The inclusion of the broom reinforces the idea of the basket being used for gathering, perhaps for collecting small items, sweeping up crumbs, or even for light agricultural tasks.
The overall aesthetic of the basket aligns with a "Wabi Sabi" sensibility – a beauty that is imperfect, impermanent, and incomplete. Its vintage nature is evident in the slightly aged appearance of the materials, suggesting a history of use and lending it a rustic, authentic charm.