A MATTAPOISSETT Basket circa 1975

Let me start off by saying that this basket was NOT made by Kathy Campbell who is considered the finest maker of Mattapoisset baskets in the country. This early example is charming but not of the quality that one might expect to find today (Kathy's exquisite baskets have been sold for upwards of $25,000). However, having said this, this basket does have wonderful mounts. The carved and polished ebony handle is quite nice as is the carved ivory baby seal on the lid. Both appear to have been made by a local craftsman Al Doucette. The ivory clasp and the six ivory feet on the bottom are in the form of scallop shells and are also quite well done. Overall, considering the rarity of these baskets, this one is priced accordingly.