I really love the form and texture of this contemporary basket, signed on the underside of the lid "M.Sharp" and dated 1989. With some digging, I've learned the M stands for Marilyn, and have found one other example of her work--different in shape, but similar in method and material-- titled "Water Jug," which was featured in a nationally juried exhibition organized by the National Basketry Organization and presented at Ghost Ranch in Abiquiu, New Mexico in 2002.

The basket seems to be made primarily of a tightly wound paper fibre, which is quite strong, woven and wrapped around the handles with what I believe is a waxed thread. Then, as the final touch, a chunky long dark blue glass bead strung at the center of the lid as a topple. Skillfully made, this basket is also very sturdy, well suited for use holding this or that, but also a terrific addition to any collection of fine baskets.

5 1/2" tall x 8" in diameter. Excellent--pristine--condition.