Object number
65/208
Exhibition
Description
A bodkin is a tool used by basketmakers for a variety of jobs, from opening out the weave to insert a rod or handle, to putting stakes in at the bottom, and therefore come in a many different sizes according to the work. This is a shell bodkin, used for putting handle bows into fine baskets, particularly the Southport boat basket. It is a long, curved, gouge-shaped tool with an iron blade, set in a short wooden handle which fits the palm. It was used by Levi Southworth, a basketmaker from Mawdesley, Lancashire.
Physical description
1 bodkin: metal, wood
Archival history
MERL 'Catalogue of baskets' form – 'NAME: BODKIN (shell) // Acc. No.: 65/208 // Group: CRAFT. WOOD BASKETS // Neg. no.: 60/6367 // Place of origin: Mawdesley. Lancashire // Period in use: 1900–1920 // DESCRIPTION // Materials: Iron blade. Wooden handle. // Shape and construction: User: Levi Southworth // Dimensions: L. [length] 7 1/2 ins // Use: For putting handle bows into fine baskets, particularly to the Southport Boat basket. // Dialect names: // Distribution: this type of tool is in general use. // Additional notes:'
Object name
Material
Associated subject
Associated person/institution
External document
- L:\MERL\Objects\JISC 2012\60 series negatives\60_6367.tif - High resolution image
- L:\MERL\Objects\Baskets\65_208_cob.tif - High resolution image