Circa 1960s, caned cylindrical purse form "friendship" basket, with carved wood swing handle, cover with reeded hinges featuring a round oval wood plaque centering a carved sperm whale ornament, signed on underside "Made in / [pictorial contour of Nantucket Island] / Nantucket /Jose Formoso Reyes." Interior lid carved with original owner 's name.

6 x 8 x 8 in. (handle down)

Lightship basket maker, Jose Formoso Reyes, was born in the Philippines and educated in the United States, eventually receiving a M.Ed. from Harvard University. He automatically received his U.S. citizenship in 1947 after his discharge from the U.S. Army with a rank of Captain. That year he was invited to vacation on Nantucket and never left. Reyes was drawn to basket making applying the weaving skills he learned in the Philippines. Encouraged by basket-making friend Mitchy Ray, Reyes' began a new new career. In 1948, he created the now sought-after "friendship basket" pocketbook. It's estimated that in his lifetime, he made over 5,000 baskets.

One hinge with separation; underside with some scuffs and wear;