

Object Name |
Basket, Picnic |
Collection |
Lambton Heritage Museum Collection |
Accession number |
LHM 2025.017 |
Catalog Number |
LHM 2025.017.001 |
Description |
Woven picnic basket with a hinged lid. The basket is rectangular in shape with rounded corners comprised of strips of split ash. The sides of the basket feature a series of narrow horizontal strips set against wide vertical strips. The rim of the basket is reinforced with a large gathering of sweet grass. Under the rim, there is an intricate design created using four small groups of colourful twisted strips of split ash, creating a floral pattern which alternates between light red and a light green. A square, wooden handle has been added to the middle of the basket and wrapped with strips of split ash to produce a checkerboard pattern. There is a band at the base of the handle, connecting each side of the basket and supporting the lid which is comprised of two woven flaps. Each flap is adorned with four rows of red twisted strips along with several prominent loops between the twists that protrude outward from the lid. The outer edge of the lids have a woven S-shaped loop and a corresponding loop on the side of the basket using dark brown thread. |
Provenance |
This picnic basket was originally owned by Blanche (nee McIntyre) Font, who grew up in the Lambton Shores. She met her husband, Harley when he was being treated at the Charlotte Eleanor Englehart Hospital and she was working there as a nurse. Blanche donated the basket for a fundraising auction at the Bridgen Fair. It was purchased later by the donor in the 1980s. The colours featured on the basket appear to be a result of vegetable dyes. |
Dimensions |
H-32 W-35.5 L-53 cm |
Search Terms |
Split Ash Basket Picnic Container Food Service |
People |
Font, Blanche |