Telescoping Bamboo Basket (Sumbul or Rice Basket type)
Storage: Decorative Accessory/Woven Bin · Traditional Southeast Asian Vernacular Design · Unknown artisan; likely produced for the export craft market or as traditional village ware.
Type
Storage: Decorative Accessory/Woven Bin
Style Period
Traditional Southeast Asian Vernacular Design
Material
Natural split bamboo or rattan fibers, likely organic dyes or light lacquer.
Age Estimate
Late 20th century to contemporary (circa 1980s-2010s).
Dimensions
Total height: 12-14 inches; Width: 8 inches; Depth: 8 inches. Compact compared to large storage hampers.
Origin
Southeast Asia, most likely Indonesia (Java/Bali) or the Philippines.
Designer/Maker
Unknown artisan; likely produced for the export craft market or as traditional village ware.
Value Estimate
$30 - $75 USD (Retail/Decorative value). Value is based on the intricacy of the weave and utilitarian appeal.
Description
A charming two-piece telescoping storage basket featuring a distinctive square profile and a smaller matching lid that fits snuggly over the base. The weave exhibits a complex diagonal pattern that creates a play of light and shadow, highlighting the natural variance in the bamboo strips. Its geometric silhouette bridges the gap between traditional folk craft and modern minimalist decor.
Key Features
Telescoping closure design, square footprint, diagonal twill weave pattern, and dual-tone natural coloration.
Color & Finish
Two-tone honey and dark amber hues achieved through smoked bamboo or varying stains; semi-gloss lacquer finish.
Construction Method
Hand-woven using a twill plaiting technique; telescoping two-part friction fit.
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Hand-woven diagonal plaiting; corners are formed by folding the weave; high-quality consistent tension.
Wood Grain & Species
Split bamboo (Bambusoideae) or Rattan; grain is linear within the individual narrow strips.
Surface Treatment
Twill weaving (herringbone-like pattern), lightly coated with a protective topcoat to resist moisture.
Upholstery Details
N/A (Non-upholstered)
Hardware & Fittings
None; utilizes friction-fit assembly and fiber weaving for structure.
Origin & Provenance
Southeast Asia, most likely Indonesia (Java/Bali) or the Philippines.
Condition Notes
Good condition; structural integrity remains intact. Minor fraying visible at the edges; slight fading due to potential UV exposure. Grade: Good.
Interesting Facts
In many Southeast Asian cultures, similar baskets are used for storing rice or personal belongings, with the telescoping lid allowing the volume to expand slightly if overfilled.
Cultural Significance
Represents the long-standing tradition of basketry in agrarian societies, where bamboo is a core sustainable building material for everything from houses to handheld containers.
Similar Pieces
Often confused with Chinese wedding baskets (which usually have handles/lacquer) or African lidded baskets (which are typically coiled rather than plaited).
Care & Maintenance
Dust with a soft brush; avoid high humidity to prevent mold; do not use liquid cleaners which may swell the fibers.
Value Estimate
$30 - $75 USD (Retail/Decorative value). Value is based on the intricacy of the weave and utilitarian appeal.
Sustainability Notes
Highly sustainable; crafted from rapidly renewable bamboo with minimal chemical processing and biodegradable components.