A scarce 19th c. basket woven cutlery tray in original dyed color. 
The woven body follows suit of typical basket weaving fashion, being made entirely of scraped black ash. Constructed from the base upwards, chamfered edge vertical stanners serve as the foundation and open weave base, allowing for rigidity and practical function of allowing air flow. Its rim ribs are fabulously crafted, rounded in form with long tapered fingers and secured at both lap joints with iron tacks. Coiling is robust and secures its rim creating a nicely fitted upper structure. 
An interior divider is rudimentary and cut from a single plank of pine wood and inserted into its body andnl secured with iron brads. A pierced hanging hole is chamfered to comfortably accommodate a hand and more than likely is formed by the weaver of the basket. 
Survives in an extremely well preserved state of condition and without flaw. Given its intended function, this is a rare feature on a form not commonly encountered in basketry. Surface elements are ideal, exhibiting all visual signs of historic use with  oxidized color enhancing its dyed finish. 
An exceptional basket for the fastidious collector. 
Northeast origin, likely eastern New York origin Vermont in origin. 12 1/2"L x 9"W.