George III Antique Silver Basket

Object Description

A large rococo revival cake basket in the style of Paul de Lamerie and combining the flamboyant features typical of the Regency period. Very heavy weight. The quality of the workmanship is exceptional, with elaborate piercing and hand chased mythical beasts, flower scrolls and trellis work. The cast fixed handle is supported by bold female figure head models. The centre is expansively engraved with a coat of arms to the centre, possibly for the Lloyd family.

Weight 3631g, 116.7 troy oz.
Height 31cm. Top measures 36.5 x 29.5cm.
London 1808.
Maker’s mark IC probably for John Clarke II.
Sterling silver.

This is a fantastic piece of silver and would make an ideal table centrepiece with fruit or flowers.

Marks. Stamped underneath with a full set of English silver hallmarks with minimal signs of wear. Crisp engravings and decorative detail.

Maker: John Clarke II

John Clarke II, London silversmith, apprenticed to James Darquitt 1794, freedom unrecorded. Mark entered as plateworker 1807.

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Object Literature

Antique Silver Baskets are nearly always described as cake baskets but were more commonly used for bread and fruit. Although 17th century versions are known to exist they were not commonly found until about 1735 onwards. Early examples usually have side handles or no handles and tend to be considerably heavier than George III examples and later.

Object Condition

In very good condition with minimal signs of wear. Good crisp engraving and decorative detail.

Object Details