Increased industrialization in the last half of the 19th through the early 20th centuries was the impetus for the creation of the American Arts and Crafts movement, as some people observed that handcrafts from the past seemed to be fast disappearing.  This willow “melon” basket is a product of the movement and was created  around 1920, by a member of the Deerfield (Massachusetts) Industries.  Artisans in Deerfield also created textiles, needlework, pottery, metalwork, and furniture.