Early 20th Century Nantucket Oval Basket attributed to A.D. Williams, circa 1920

Early 20th Century Nantucket Oval Basket attributed to A.D. Williams (Nantucket: 1867 – 1940), circa 1920, an oval open swing handled Nantucket basket with cane weave on oak staves, slender carved handle attached to short tin ears entrapped under the weave, and a mahogany bottom plate.

A.D. Williams had his basket shop at 120 Orange Street. He learned his craft from William Appleton, a renowned basket maker who served aboard the South Shoals Lightship and is credited with pioneering the oval form (much more difficult to make than the uniform round basket). This background is likely why Williams also specialized in oval baskets.

While the quality of Williams’ work can vary, this sweet little basket is among his finest. It remains in excellent original condition, and has developed a fine deep honey color and patina. The only fault that can be found is a water stain on one end of the interior bottom plate (which would likely disappear with use of finish feeder).

Measures: 4-1/4 H x 9-1/4 L x 6-1/2 in W