Green and Brown Hen Basket

Ira Blount · 1983

The handle of this round “hen” basket is continuous with the body, creating a circular shape. Green, brown, and natural-colored reeds and wood splints are woven in a plain weave. Some of the splints have been twisted to provide further texture to the basket. The colors and textures offer a nod to the name and history of this type of basket, which was said to be used to transport chickens: the shape prohibited the animals from flapping their wings and escaping.