Small Antique Open Willow Basket with Rare Original Thick Black Lacquer. In northern China, baskets often were woven with willow material rather than bamboo which mostly are grown in the south. Although willow woven baskets were a common item used for utalitarian purposes, such as storing dry grains, food, or holding personal objects, fewer pieces were available with such thick layers of original old lacquer like this piece and is in good condition. The basket has bveen refinished with clear coats of lacquer finish over the old thick black lacquer. This beautiful basket with a more sophiticated traditional laquer work is an excellent buy for someone who enjoys beautiful old decorative object.