Identification and age
The green piece is a compact bow-fronted linen or laundry basket, made from machine-woven fibre over a wooden and wire-reinforced frame, with a hinged lid, plaited edging and woven loop pull.
It is very likely British Lloyd Loom, probably from the W. Lusty & Sons tradition, although the maker cannot be guaranteed because no paper label is visible. A close labelled example of almost identical compact form and dimensions is described as a 1940s/50s W. Lusty & Sons corner laundry basket.
Probable date: circa 1935–1955, most likely the 1940s or early 1950s.
The stamped “638” underneath appears to be a pattern, stock or production number—not a date. The dark bottle-green gloss is almost certainly a later repaint; older bronze/gold colouring remains visible inside and underneath.
A useful confirmation test is to place a reasonably strong magnet against several of the vertical strands. Genuine Lloyd Loom has paper-covered steel wire in these strands, whereas ordinary cane, rattan and Sirrom-type weave will not respond in the same way.
Measurements from your photographs
Approximately:
Current value
The UK market is quite variable. Recent auction results include £60 for a green Lloyd Loom Lusty basket, £30 for two baskets together, and only £8 for a worn pink corner example. Ordinary vintage examples are currently advertised around £55–£60, while particularly good pieces retaining an original maker’s label and glass top are advertised nearer £115.
For yours, allowing for the attractive appearance but also the later repaint and missing label:
Selling methodRealistic valueGeneral household auction£20–£45 hammerLocal Facebook Marketplace/private sale£45–£65eBay/Etsy/dealer asking price£65–£85Recommended starting price£69Sensible offer to accept£50–£60Quick-sale price£40–£45
I would not price it above about £85 unless a maker’s label or clear date mark is subsequently found.
Ready-to-use listing
Title
Vintage Lloyd Loom-Type Green Bow-Front Linen Laundry Basket c.1940s/50s
Description
A charming vintage British woven-fibre linen or laundry basket, probably dating from the 1940s or early 1950s.
Compact bow-fronted form with a hinged woven lid, decorative plaited edging, woven loop pull and four small wooden feet. The basket is constructed from fine woven fibre over a wooden and wire-reinforced frame in the Lloyd Loom tradition.
Finished in a glossy dark bottle green. This appears to be a later repaint, with traces of the earlier bronze/gold finish remaining visible to the interior and underside. The base is stamped “638”, probably a factory pattern or production number.
Approximate dimensions:
Height 61 cm
Width 38.5 cm
Depth 29 cm
Approximately 24 x 15¼ x 11½ inches
Condition: Structurally sound vintage condition. The woven body appears largely complete, and the hinged lid opens and closes as shown. There are age-related marks, small chips, scuffs, paint build-up and wear, particularly around the rim, interior and feet. No original maker’s paper label is visible. Please study all photographs as they form part of the condition description.
Ideal for storing towels, linen, laundry or bedroom and bathroom accessories. Decorative as well as practical. Not sold or recommended as a seat.
Shipping via 48-hour tracked service.