Pine Needle Baskets

I would not even consider actually setting a hot pan down on this lovely piece of art, but the word "trivet" helps to understand the look and feel of this work.

It is tightly woven and very flat.  It feels rigid, as you would expect from a trivet. 

I think this piece was varnished.  That would account for the stiff feel.  It would also make the trivet less easily damaged by spilled food.  

This picture provides a very close look at the weaving which makes up this trivet.  It is well done, very tight, and quite attractive.  

In our house we keep it one the wall, not on the counter top.