Vintage White Chippy Wicker Basket, 20th Century

This vintage wicker basket has the kind of character that only time can create. Measuring 33 x 23.5 x 10 cm, it is woven from natural fibres and finished with layers of white paint that have worn away in places to reveal the wicker beneath. This chippy, distressed surface gives the basket its unique appeal, making it not just a container but a decorative piece in its own right.

The oval form is both practical and adaptable. With gently sloping sides and a shallow depth, it is well suited for serving bread, holding fruit, or keeping household items close to hand. The weaving remains strong and intact, though the surface shows areas of paint loss and light marks that reflect its vintage condition. These details add to its authenticity, distinguishing it from newly made baskets that try to replicate the same look without the genuine patina of age.

Baskets like this are valued not only for their functionality but also for their styling potential. The soft white paint finish works beautifully in neutral interiors, adding texture and depth without overpowering other pieces. It is particularly effective in rustic, farmhouse, or coastal schemes, where its worn finish feels naturally at home. For modern interiors, it provides contrast against clean lines and can be used to soften harder edges with its organic form.

Styling possibilities are endless. Place it on a dining table lined with a linen cloth for fresh bread, on a console as a catchall for keys and everyday items, or on a shelf as part of a layered display with books, ceramics, and plants. Its size makes it easy to reposition and restyle, ensuring it remains useful throughout the seasons.

Compared to newer baskets, this piece offers individuality and charm at a very approachable level. The chippy white finish, combined with its vintage construction, gives it a look that decorators and stylists often seek out, yet genuine examples are becoming harder to source. This basket captures that lived-in aesthetic perfectly, while remaining practical enough for everyday use.