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A proud tradition found only in the
Charleston, SC area
A valued investment you will be proud to own

Sweetgrass Basket History
Sweetgrass basket making, a family art, is more than three hundred years old and is one of
the oldest art forms of African origin in the United States. This particular type of
basketry is practiced only in the Charleston area. These baskets have been purchased by
museums and art collectors. In fact, the Museum of American History at the Smithsonian
Institution displays the Lowcountry coil basketry.
These baskets have
been in continuous production since the 18th century. The entire family would
be involved in the creation of these baskets. The ladies and girls "sewed" the
baskets while the men and boys gathered the materials. It could take as long as twelve
hours for a simple design, even for the most experienced basket maker. The more complex
designs take as long as two to three months.
(Baskets are individually
made by hand. Expect some variation.) |
BSK1 Large, BSK1SM Sm

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This
unique handmade, woven sweetgrass basket can be used as a breadbasket and would be a
welcomed addition to anyones dining table. With its sturdy design and handles, it
can also be used as a container for your casserole dish.
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$114.00
Each
Large Size
12" X 9"
X 2 1/2" High
(Approx.) |
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These baskets come in
many different shapes and sizes. During the plantation era, these baskets were in great
demand for agricultural purposes and brought extra income to the slave owners. The men
made the large baskets from marsh grasses called bulrush. These baskets were used to
collect and store vegetables, staples, grain, cotton, fish and shellfish. The women made
the functional baskets for everyday living in the home. These baskets were made from
sweetgrass (Muhlenbergia filipes) because of its pleasant fragrance. These were used as
breadbaskets, fruit baskets, sewing baskets and clothes storage. |
$89.00
Each
Small Size
9 3/4" X 6 1/2"
X 2" High
(Approx.) |
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BSK2

6 3/4" Diameter X 2 3/4" High
(Approx.) |
A unique smaller sweetgrass basket which can be used as a fruit basket,
flower basket, etc. |
$96.00
Each |
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BSK3

5 1/4" X 6" X 5" High
(Approx.) |
You
will find many uses for this cute flower or candy basket. A shining example of
sweetgrass basket art as practiced only in Charleston. |
$65.00
Each |
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BSK4

6" X 1.5" High
(Approx.) |
Notice the
scalloped edge, giving this beautiful basket it's "one of a kind" look.
Another example of sweetgrass basket art as it is practiced only in Charleston. |
$136.00
Each |
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BSK5 
11" X 2 3/4" High
(Approx.) |
This design,
the "ricefanner," was the original sweetgrass basket design. |
$146.00
Each |
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With proper care, these sweetgrass baskets
will last indefinitely and only increase in value with age. They can be washed in soapy
water, using a soft brush or cloth, then air dried. This is the only care required. |


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