£150
PITCAIRN ISLAND - an oval red miro wood basket, with handle, shaped rim and the turned outer body with letter punched floral decoration and punched 'Pitcairn Island' and maker's name 'John Christian', 22.5cm x 18.5cm. Similar example see Christie's 'Exploration & Travel Including The Bligh Relics' sale, 26th September 2002, Lot no. 70. Notes: a basket made by 1 of the Bounty mutineer Fletcher Christian's descendants on Pitcairn Island. This first recorded John Christian was Fletcher Christian's Great-Grandson, born on Pitcairn in 1843, possibly maker of the present basket, although the woodworking tradition and manufacture of souvenirs to sell to passing ships continues on the island to this day. The outer body of the present basket is turned in red miro, which grew on Pitcairn and on neighbouring Henderson Island, where the islanders sailed to replenish stocks of timber.
The upright surround has 1 vertical split but this does appear to be a natural flaw in the design and has a small piece of metal connecting both ends of split, otherwise only general surface wear and a few small water stain patches
Fees apply to the hammer price:
Room and Absentee Bids:
24% inc VAT*
Online and Autobids:
24% inc VAT*
