Barlow Nantucket Basket Purse Value Guide

The Barlow Nantucket Basket Purse is a quintessential American accessory that evolved from 19th-century lightship baskets into a mid-century fashion icon. These 'Friendship Baskets' are highly collectible for their intricate rattan weaving and decorative maritime-themed lids, representing a unique blend of nautical history and high-society style.

What affects the value of Barlow Nantucket Basket Purse?

• Condition of the rattan weave, specifically looking for any breaks, brittle fibers, or unravelling.
• The intricacy and preservation of the scrimshaw artwork on the lid, including the presence of any cracks or yellowing.
• Functionality of the hinges and the integrity of the swing handle attachments.
• Market demand for specific maritime scenes, with rare or highly detailed carvings fetching prices toward the $385 range.

How to Identify Barlow Nantucket Basket Purse?

• Check for the signature oval shape with a sturdy swing handle and a solid wood base.
• Examine the lid for maritime-themed scrimshaw, typically featuring lighthouses or whaling ships on bone or polymer.
• Look for the 'Barlow' maker's mark or label, often found on the interior or bottom of the basket.
• Verify the tight, uniform weave of the rattan, which distinguishes authentic hand-woven pieces from mass-produced imitations.

History of Barlow Nantucket Basket Purse

Originating on the lightships off the coast of Nantucket in the mid-19th century, these baskets were originally made by sailors to pass the time. By the mid-20th century, weavers like Jose Formoso Reyes transformed them into popular fashion accessories known as 'Friendship Baskets.' The Barlow company became a well-known producer of these purses, often featuring faux-scrimshaw scenes depicting lighthouses and whaling ships.