Presented is a large English sterling silver pierced cake, bread or fruit basket made in 1767. This piece has beautiful designs. The basket has 4 different latticework designs, some with scrolls or quatrefoil shapes. The different types of pierced work goes very well together and the overall design is fabulous. The top of the basket has an elegant leafy boarder with a gadroon edge. The basket could be used as a cake basket or bread basket, whatever you like. There is a nice large handle that can be placed to either side as well as straight up. At the center of the handle there is a small crest of what appears to be a dog/wolf with an arrow in its mouth. The crest has been worn, but it appears to be a similar crest to the Baskerville Family. There may be a more identical match but we were not able to identify it.
The side of the piece is marked with English hallmarks. It is hallmarked with the Lion Passant for sterling silver, the leopard's head crowned for London, and the date letter, M, representing 1767. This piece is also marked with a maker's mark, W.P, for William Plummer.
This piece is in excellent condition! The pierced work is crisp and clean with no splits. The handle's hinge works well. There is a small ding at the base of the bowl but it is minor. Let the photos be your guide. There are no breaks and no repairs. Amazing condition for 1767.
Measurements: 13 in x 14 in x 3 5/8 in Base: 5 3/4 inches x 8 inches Height w/ Handle: 11 inches tall
