Collectible Basket Appraisal

Lidded Woven Basket with 2000 Star Charm

This item is a handcrafted and lidded basket, likely made from woven wood splints or rattan, exhibiting a light to medium natural wood tone. The basket features a tightly woven construction, characteristic of traditional basket-making techniques, with consistent horizontal and vertical elements forming a sturdy base and sides. A notable design element is the wooden lid, which appears to be a single piece of light-colored wood, possibly pine or maple, showing some surface dust or minor discoloration, suggesting a natural patina from age or use. Surrounding the base of the lid and extending over the handle is a light blue fabric with a subtle, swirling pattern, possibly a damask or paisley print, serving both as a decorative element and potentially as a soft lining or cushion. The fabric is tied neatly around the top of the handle, indicating it is an integrated part of the basket's design, rather than an add-on. Attached to the front of the basket is a metal plaque or tag, oval-shaped and finished in a matching light blue enamel or paint, with what appears to be an embossed or debossed inscription, though the text is not clearly legible. Hanging from this plaque by a short fabric loop is a decorative metal charm, shaped like a five-point star, also in light blue, with the year '2000' clearly embossed or inscribed on its surface. This star charm strongly suggests the item was either produced in or commemorates the year 2000. The overall craftsmanship appears to be of high quality, with neat weaving and a well-fitting lid. The presence of the star charm and the fabric color coordination point towards a collectible or commemorative item, possibly from a specific maker known for annual releases or special editions. The basket shows minimal signs of wear beyond the surface dust on the lid, indicating it has been well-preserved.