George II Antique Silver Basket, London, 1749.

Object Description

A delightful little miniature George II silver swing handled sweetmeat basket of oval form. Very small size. The quality is excellent with heavy gauge silver and good colour. The handle and border are expertly cast with finely executed shell, scroll and flower decoration. The body has pierced lattice design, the centre hand engraved with an armorial within a decorative cartouche. The cast feet have interesting figural face masks standing on shell feet.

Weight 316g, 10.1 troy oz.
Height 12.2cm, 4.8ins (total including handle), 4.8cm, 1.9ins (basket only). Top measures 14.8cm, 5.8ins x 12.7cm, 5ins.
London 1749.
Maker James Morrison.
Sterling silver.

A dainty way to pass around small foods such as nuts or candy.

Marks. Stamped to the underside with a full set of English silver hallmarks, handle unmarked.

Maker: James Morrison

James Morrison (Morison), apprenticed to Charles Beard 1727, turned over to William Hinton Rogers 1731. 1st mark entered as largeworker 1740. James’ son Richard was apprenticed to James 1776. James also took as apprentice a William Hollinshedin 1780.

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Object Literature

Sweetmeat Baskets are usually miniature versions of a cake basket of the same period. This useful item is still made today but with a change of use as a bonbon or sugar basket.

Object Condition

This little dish is in very good condition with minor wear consistent with age. The handle functions well and stands firm.

Object Details