So unique!  ORIGINAL 1890’s FIRKIN Sugar Basket – rarely found – and with the ORIGINAL Fitted Lid and Swinging Handle.  Bucket has stave-wood construction, a U-shaped swinging handle, lapped wood bands, and a wooden lid.  Plus, an extra BONUS: inside is a Vintage RETRO green plastic insert labeled “Jerywil”.  In the 1950’s, Jerywil Plastics was an early innovator of stylish, molded plastic dinnerware – and baskets like this were retrofitted during the 1950’s and used for Picnics or fancy Outdoor Dining.  FIRKINS became popular after the Civil War, during the mid/late 19th Century.  “FIRKIN” is an old Dutch Term for “fourth”, describing a unit of Measurement (where sugar, butter, or liquor would be sold by the “Firkin” – which was equivalent to a quarter (¼) of a Barrel).  The term is now used to refer to small wooden barrel-like containers, used to store provisions.  This one has a beautiful dark honey-wood tone.  With the lid, size is 8” H, 9” W, and 9”D.  Gorgeous condition, with no marks or scratches.  Item can be shipped nationwide to Winning Bidder (with insurance) or picked up for free in Enfield, CT after the Auction.  Perfect Romantic Home Décor (or use as a Vase, Ice Bucket, Cookie Jar, or for storage).