Vintage 1978 Farnum Nantucket Lightship Style Basket Purse Carved Whale Signed For Sale

Beautiful vintage Nantucket-style basket purse, signed “Farnum 78” on the underside, dating the piece to 1978.

The basket features a finely woven oval body with wooden top and base, tall bentwood swing handle, white handle mounts, front peg-style clasp, and an applied carved sperm whale on the wooden lid. Wonderful warm aged color and patina throughout.

Size: Approximately 6.5” wide x 6” tall, or approximately 10.5” tall with the handle raised.

Condition: The basket feels very sturdy and structurally sound. I do not see any breaks to the woven body. There is age-related wear to the weaving and rim bindings, including a small area of looseness/unraveling on the right side of the front clasp. One small tack is missing from the rim, as shown in the close-up photograph. The leather straps at the rear hinge show age and wear; I do not know whether these are original or old replacements. The carved whale and white fittings show age-appropriate surface wear. Please review all photographs closely, as they are an important part of the condition description.

The carved whale and white fittings show age-appropriate surface wear. I have not had the white material professionally identified and am making no representation as to its composition.

A very attractive early Farnum example with a classic maritime/Nantucket look. Please review all photographs closely, as they are an important part of the condition description.

Ships securely boxed USPS Priority Mail insured