SIGNED RICHMOND, VA STITCHED LEATHER KEY BASKET,

SIGNED RICHMOND, VA STITCHED LEATHER KEY BASKET, oblong form with stitched decoration, oxidized red interior and original stitched two-ply flat handle, stamped "S. S. COTTRELL & Co / RICHMOND, VA." under bottom.. Second half 19th century. 6 3/4" h overall, 3 1/8" h rim, 3" x 8 7/8"
Reference: Parallels MESDA Journal, May 1982, R. Lewis Wright, "Key Baskets", figs. 7, 8.
Provenance: Recently discovered in Albemarle Co., VA.
Note: According to Dr. Wright, the Cottrell family operated a harness and saddlemaking business in Richmond from before 1850 to 1928. They were listed as the S. S. Cottrell Co. from 1858 to 1887.

Very good as-found condition, handle with a crack to interior layer only at one juncture, along with normal light exterior cracking, handle is solid and has not been detached, normal wear and flaking to rim.