Antique Nantucket Lightship Sewing Basket Made by Ferdinand Sylvaro

Circa 1930: Measuring 7" wide by 8 1/2" tall to the top of the handle, this unusual Nantucket Lightship sewing basket made by Ferdinand Sylvaro is a sight to behold. The basket still retains its orginal fabric and looks as if it has never been used. When Mitchell Ray retired from basket making in the first decade of the 20th century, he sold his basket molds to Sylvaro, who in turn made high quality baskets in Rhode Island for the next three decades. This basket has the remnant of a label on the bottom and is in very good condition with a some loss around the rim. Lightship sewing baskets with their fabric lining are a delight to find and this lovely, early example will be a joy to add to any collection.