Object Description
A George III silver swing-handled basket of oval form, with a bright-cut engraved and slat-pierced border interrupted by four figural cartouches. The basket is raised on a slat-pierced oval foot with beaded rim. The centre is engraved with a wonderful crest.
The figurative engraving in the four cartouches around the basket is a most unusual feature. The allegorical figures are collecting wheat from the fields and the “Queen” like figure is probably meant to represent Ceres, the goddess of agriculture, fertility and grains. Very appropriate for a bread or cake basket.
The engraving is crisp and the basket is in excellent condition – a fine, unusual piece.
Dimensions: 35.56 cm; weight 28.50 troy oz.