This antique industrial wicker basket served as a transport container for artillery shells during the WWI/WWII era. The carrier features a sturdy woven willow body with reinforced wooden bottom for industrial use. The basket has a faded stenciled markings indicating their former military purpose, "Nr 0830". The baskets were designed to absorb shock and protect delicate, heavy artillery casings during deployment. This German wicker shell carrier measures roughly 23" x 21" x 5.5, holds 4 rounds and is fitted with a solid wooden base to bear heavy loads.
The basket has an appealing decor to be used in rustic or industrial interior design: repurposed as umbrella and cane stands, blanket and quilt holders, or perhaps a long stemmed floral display.