A beautifully timeworn French bread-proofing basket, or banneton, traditionally used by bakers for shaping and resting a ring-shaped couronne loaf before baking. Woven from willow with its original heavy linen lining, the basket features a distinctive raised center that allowed the dough to proof in its characteristic circular form. The years of flour, handling, mending and repeated use have left the linen with incredible patina—exactly the sort of honest wear that speaks to its utilitarian past. The underside reveals the handwoven basket construction, while visible stitching and old repairs add another layer to its history. Today, we love it displayed in a kitchen or pantry, layered with antique bread boards and pottery, or simply hung as an unexpected piece of French culinary history. Condition: Antique condition with significant age-related wear, staining, small holes, old stitching and repairs to the linen. These are part of the piece's history and character rather than considered defects. Decorative use recommended. Dimensions: 16 x 3.5