Wicker & Bamboo Sewing Basket with Figural Turtle Lid Ornament

A charming early-to-mid 20th century Chinese export sewing basket constructed of finely woven wicker and split bamboo over a wood frame, with vertical bamboo slats banding the sides in a column-like rhythm. The hinged lid is surmounted by a wonderfully expressive figural turtle, hand-carved and painted black with rust-red highlights at the feet and head. The turtle's domed shell is woven of fine wicker and overlaid with a webbing of dark cord that mimics the segmented scutes of a real carapace, while glass-bead eyes catch the light.

Baskets of this type were produced in southern China and exported westward through the early decades of the 20th century, often sold as sewing or trinket boxes. The turtle — a symbol of longevity and steadiness in Chinese tradition — makes a particularly desirable variant, and surviving examples with the figural ornament intact and structurally sound are increasingly hard to come by. A delightful piece of decorative folk craft with strong display presence.

CONDITION

Good with no damage noted. Weaving is tight and intact throughout, the turtle ornament remains firmly attached, and the cord webbing on the shell is complete. Light surface wear and minor handling marks consistent with age.

DIMENSIONS / SPECIFICATIONS

• Overall with Lid: 6.5" H × 8" W × 5" D
• Interior without Lid: 4.5" H × 8" W × 4.5" D
• Materials: Woven wicker, split bamboo, carved and painted wood
• Markings: Unmarked