Antique Early American Cherokee Oak Splint Melon Baskets Lot of 4 abt 1880-1930s

Description

Antique Lot of 4 Early American/ Cherokee Oak Splint Melon Baskets, As Found, prob. 1880-1930s. One Miniature
This group of four Early American/ Cherokee oak splint melon baskets are typical of a cultural area from the Shenandoah Valley through the Great Smokey Mountains in the border area of western North Carolina/ eastern Tennessee. The Oklahoma Cherokee also created this form using the same materials  This collection of small, finely woven examples including one miniature date from about the late 1800's to 1930's and have varied original untouched patina and surfaces.
It is highly likely that several of this group were created by members of the Qualla Band of the Cherokee Nation who survived the "Trail of Tears" forced march (1831-1839), which relocated most Southeastern Tribes to the Oklahoma Territory.  Some Qualla Cherokee peoples were able to escape to the high Appalachians and live there to this day.
Dimensions: From main photo (left to right):
6-3/4" tall, body 4" tall x 8" wide x 7-1/4" deep
6-1/4" tall, body 3-1/2" tall x 7-1/4" wide x 6-1/2" deep
5-1/4" tall, body 3-1/2" tall x 6-1/2" wide x 5-5/8" deep
3-1/4" tall, body 1-7/8" tall x 3-3/4" wide x 3" deep
Condition:  All in original as found condition.  Three of four are perfect, with no breaks.  In main photo, second from left has two minor splint losses (see photos).  No repairs evident and all have undisturbed patina.