For me this sort of antique wirework basket, all done by hand, is like a wonderful line drawing in three dimensions—and all those loops and twists make me think of Calder’s circus, too!  Good for holding a row of small potted plants, or some fruit—real or made of stone!—or whatever. One could also lay a narrow tray inside to create a flat surface. Or treat it as a sculpture, which is what I would do, in a lighting situation to accentuate the casting of shadows—so lyrical feeling to me.

15 3/4 x 5 3/4 x 5 3/8” t. Great antique condition, c. 1880s or so I believe. No rusting and appears it was never painted.