Antique Armadillo Shell Basket

Armadillo shell baskets are an unusual form of antique decorative work, reflecting a time when natural materials were often adapted into household ornaments and curiosities. This remarkable example uses an armadillo shell as the body of the basket, with a red fabric drawstring lining. It is approximately 23cm x 21cm, and the fabric shows wear consistent with its age. A rare and wonderfully eccentric piece of natural history. When did you last see one of these?