French Gathering Basket

Found in Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, this oversized French gathering basket was handwoven from willow with twin handles on either side, the classic panier de vendange shape carried out into the vineyards at harvest time. Two handles meant two people could lift it together once the grapes were in, the basket heavy enough that it took both sets of hands to carry it to the press. The willow has worn pale and soft over the decades, the weave still holding tight after a lifetime in the field. Sylvie sets it by the front door for shoes, blankets, and whatever needs a home that's not on the floor.