A 19th c. egg gathering basket in original oyster white paint. 
Constructed of ash wood in its entirety, woven finely and of deliberate design. Its wide body and low profile design accomodates a capacitive size to capture gathered eggs from a household yet remain in compact size. 
Its weavers are cut and shaved of thin and delicate tolerances accomodating the ribbing curvature of the body. As in fashion of traditional southern basketry, the handle forms a complete circle joined with three small iron brads forming the foundation of the baskets work. 
A slightly off white hue of oyster white paint adorns the body with the most ideal surface characteristics possible. Vibrancy, texture and linear color present themselves. 
Remains in superlative original condition without flaw and presents extremely well. Southern basketry is seldom seen on the marketplace surviving in this kind of condition while exhibiting a more uncommonly found paint color. 
Virginia or North Carolina origin. Ca. 1890. 8"W