Mini Oval Openwork White Wicker Basket

A mini version of our large oval openwork wicker basket, this tiny basket is constructed with twisted rope handles and a woven base.  The technique and time it takes to weave each diminutive basket, as well as the rarity of small, peeled willow strands, makes this a little luxury. This is an authentic, traditional French basket, made entirely by hand in France.  Crafted with the finest of willow, its lightness and delicacy belie its strength; it is crafted to be functional as well as decorative.  The quality of the willow truly sets this basket apart. To achieve it's beautiful vanilla color, freshly harvested willow bunches are submerged in water at the beginning of winter and removed in the spring.  The bark is then peeled off and the willow is dried in the sun for a few days and stored in darkness for six months.  It is this long, entirely natural process, which allows true French willow to achieve its beautiful color and famous quality.  Inferior quality baskets are made in factories using willow peeled while hot and bleached with chemicals, which damages the willow and makes it matte.  A varnish is then applied to give it the luster that comes naturally to our baskets.  With proper care, your wicker basket will have a very long life and, over time, take on a lovely, golden patina; dust and clean if necessary with soapy water and a soft brush, then rinse with clear water and air dry immediately.  Do not soak. 7.5" x 5" x 4.25" (top of handle)* Handmade from white willow in France *Due to their handmade nature, sizes may vary slightly