Antique Penobscot Splint Ash and Sweetgrass Handled Basket Vase antique wooden cherub as documented in photos--largely only

as documented in photos--largely only noticeable under bright light and magnification

head slightly turned and arms positioned at the top of voluminous skirt

which I think may be an animal

I would guess this piece dates to the mid 20th century

At first I took this small vase with its terrific patterning as an Art Deco piece

Antique Penobscot Splint Ash and Sweetgrass Handled Basket Vase antique wooden cherub as documented in photos--largely onlyThis is a lovely Penobscot (Native New England) splint ash and sweetgrass basket woven around a glass jar to serve as a vase. The splint ash visible on the bottom of the basket has been dyed a blue green, and the the sweetgrass on the sides and lip has been braided and woven in both single and double strands. The sides of the vase are finished with two large circular ash ring handles which are bound with ash splints in the "Penobscot star" pattern. I