Nantucket Baskets

The Nantucket basket and the Nantucket purse are the only basketry styles known to have been created exclusively in Nantucket. No other style of basketry can match the distinctive characteristics of these stunning baskets. The Nantucket lightship basket is often used as a handbag today, but its original purpose was strictly utilitarian, usually nesting together two or four at a time. The tops of early baskets were often left open with one or more handles. As far back as the 1940s, Nantucket baskets were a popular collectible accessory. Browse Bidsquare's largest collection of authentic antique and vintage Nantucket baskets, including rare and handwoven items.  

The rattan or cane baskets found on authentic baskets are made from wooden molds and are supported by solid wooden bases. In addition to providing structural support to the basket, the wooden base contributes to its durability and timeless appeal over generations. A covered friendship basket was designed by José Formoso Reyes at the end of the 1940s. An attractive hinged cover surrounded a plaque that was intended to serve as a purse.  This led to the creation of the Nantucket friendship basket, whose popularity has endured to this day. In the years following, artisans have elevated Nantucket baskets to a competitive level of sophistication. Friendship Baskets adorned with ivory whales, seagulls, and Nantucket maps, a once simple craft has evolved into a variety of styles, materials, designs, and purposes, taking an ordinary craft, and elevating it to a fine work of art.

The earliest Nantucket baskets were woven out of wood splints and secured underneath with pine boards. Basketmaking evolved into an art form aboard the Nantucket lightships during the 1860s. An emblem and a symbol of Nantucket Island, the Nantucket basket and purse became synonymous with the island. A floating lighthouse was a popular spot for the craft in the mid-19th century, so they became known as Lightship Baskets.  An oval-handled basket was made into a purse in the middle of the twentieth century through the addition of a lid, hence the name Nantucket friendship basket.  In today's weaving industry, tradition is combined with modern needs and aesthetics.  

There is a continuing demand for these baskets that are both useful and collectible as well as a valuable investment. The worth of a beautifully crafted Nantucket basket and Nantucket purse inevitably increases. Family heirlooms, such as Nantucket baskets and Nantucket purses, are passed down through generations. In Nantucket, both locals and visitors coveted Nantucket lightship purses as fashion accessories. Today, these baskets can be quite valuable if they are from the original period. Nantucket basket weavers are not restricted to weaving on the island. Craftsmen are today making Nantucket baskets across the country, even in space. Dan Bursch, an astronaut on the International Space Station, crafted a miniature Nantucket basket in his spare time.

Nantucket Baskets for Auction

Bidsquare online auctions offers a wide range of antique, vintage, and modern Nantucket baskets.  With baskets created by some of the best weavers past and present, our collection of baskets is a fine representation of the art of weaving. 

Looking for auctions near me? Visit Bidsquare's auction near me page to discover upcoming auctions near you.