Yugoslav Military Game Bird Wicker Basket

Made in Yugoslavia during the mid-20th century, most likely between the 1950s and 1970s, this game bird wicker basket was built with decades of tradition in mind. Measuring 25 inches long by 16 inches wide and standing 22 inches tall at its highest points, it reflects the classic form of a fancier’s training basket. The woven wicker sides provide steady airflow, the canvas lid keeps the interior shaded and secure, and the green-painted steel braces strengthen the frame for repeated journeys. At 13 pounds, it has a reassuring weight that speaks to durability, further reinforced by handset rivets that anchor the steel to the wicker. Rope handles, thick and worn smooth, tell the story of countless lifts, releases, and returns from loft to field. Recognizable to handlers who value reliability, this design was crafted for disciplined routines and trusted for decades. Today, the basket stands as more than equipment. It is a rare survivor of mid-century European sporting heritage, equally at home as a collector’s piece of pigeon lore or as a rustic decorative accent. Ready to serve once again as a great conversation starter in any setting. Used, good vintage condition. Styles will vary. Genuine European Military Surplus. Made in Yugoslavia.  

Expert Tips:
Condition the wicker occasionally with a light coat of natural oil to keep it supple. Shield the canvas top from prolonged moisture to preserve its strength. For collectors, intact loft baskets of this weight and riveted construction are increasingly scarce and display beautifully alongside clocks, medals, or race records. For decorators, it makes a striking accent filled with greenery, books, or textiles, allowing its form to shine while honoring its original spirit of release and return.