These baskets or containers may have been used many years ago for a variety of objects. Some call them Appalachian Berry Baskets while others claim them to be herb gathering containers. Though I have no documented proof, my belief is they could have been made in a variety of sizes and shapes. 

They would have been easy to hang in a teepee or your cabin and the different shapes or sizes could determine what was in them. I know when I
do a show or am set up in my lodge or teepee I used them to keep my personal items, garlic, spices or any item I wish to keep out of sight of visitors to my lodge. Common uses from collectors are to keep bills
in them, pencils, dried flowers.

These containers sell from $15-$150 plain or embellished