Sometimes when you are shopping vintage- you bump into something that speaks to you. That you didn’t know you needed- until you found it. Like an antique harvest basket.
Found items are the best kind right? They aren’t cookie cutter same on the shelves in a store- they are unique and interesting. And they are a surprise treasure that makes your heart skip a beat when you find them. Today I am sharing a closer look at that chunky old antique basket that I scored at my friend Sandy’s shop.
A closer look Antique Basket /Hod
I mean, the blue gray chippy paint, woven basket texture, and old rope straps – does it get any better? When I saw this sitting in a booth – I instantly walked over to get a closer look. And almost as quickly, picked it up and carted it to the front of the store.
I held it up and asked Sandy if I needed it and I was pretty sure my name was already on it. She agreed I might need it and convinced me that the color and size were perfect (okay, she more just agreed with me on those too haha) and so, voila. It went in the car.
Harvest Basket History
I am not sure how old this is- but I was told these baskets or hods are worn on your back like a backpack were used to cart grapes from the vineyard to be processed. This one was marked as a ‘French Grape Harvesting Basket’ and has old rope and strap details, wood at the bottom and a tall back. Aside from the big chunky size – that gorgeous old gray blue color stole my heart instantly.
Details Details Details
I love old baskets of any kind and am often carting them home with me when thrifting. Someone once told me that they see me as a ‘texture’ girl. In my rooms, layers of whatever color happen but it is less about patterns for me- and more about the texture of something in a room.
Nubby linens and velvets. Rattan chairs. Chipping paint or old hand rubbed patina. And of course, lovely details in baskets among many other things.
I imagine under that paint- the basket has a lovely patina as well.
Where to display them
I shared a peek at the basket on the floor near the mirrors a few photos back to give you an idea of how large it is. And I love it hanging on the wall as well. You can also tuck baskets like these at the base of a cupboard, on the wall in the entry, etc. I will share another post about a few unique ways to use a basket like this for display and also for storing things. Stay tuned.
Where will it land? I am not sure yet to be honest. I have a few ideas but nothing has spoken to me as THE spot just yet so, for now, enjoying it as is filled with baby’s breath in the living room.
Shop the Look
Get the look with reproductions- I linked several sizes and shapes and you could always add a layer of lovely paint to customize. *affiliates
What do you think of this antique basket? Would you have brought it home with you too? For those asking about Sandy’s shop- it is called The Grand Collective in Roseville, CA.
Jill says
I would like to think it would have come home with me if i say it first. Its beautiful! I have an Adirondack pack basket that is hand made( not old) but i just love It. Its fairly large also
Courtney says
I have an affinity for handmade Adirondack treasures too- they are so lovely.
Robin says
I have one of these exactly LIKE YOURS without the paint! I love it and i will never get ride of it. I found it in a second hand shop for $25! I knew what it was as soon as i snatched it up. It hangs above my fireplaCe now in my living room. I have displayred flowers, grapevines, greenery—-almost ANYTHING you can think of in my basket. So excited that you found one and cant wait to see what you do with it!
Courtney says
You got yours for SUCH a good price! That is amazing! I bet it is beautiful all year long.
Susan says
AbsolutelY! A must buy. Where would you find another one With this paint color?? It has a thousand uses…what I always tell my husband when he’s looking at my latest treasure.
franki Parde says
Luv it! I like old fishing creels…neat woven ones…sigh…franki
Elizabeth@pineconesandacorns says
I love it, I have been on the lookout for one for years and have not had any luck. Yours looks fabulous!
Mary Anne Russo says
Such a beautiful accent piece! I love the doors as well!
NANCY says
Is that faux babys breath and where do you get it?
Courtney says
This is real baby’s breath- but I linked a couple of faux options at the bottom of the post. 🙂
Maureen B Campbell says
Just love antique basketS of all Kinds ! They are soo useful and great decorative items. Your blue FRENCH baskEt is lovely! I have one similar that i change the flowers to the seasons.