George III Pierced Silver Basket, 1777

This antique silver basket is superbly pierced and fitted with its original blue glass liner.

Dating from the reign of King George III, this vase-shaped basket has a combination of wavy, trellis-work piercings and delicately engraved decoration. The rope-twist mount to base and top rim is repeated for the hinged, swing handle. The blue glass liner faithfully follows the contours of the top rim and the deep Bristol-blue colour seen through the piercings give the piece real vibrancy.

This form of basket can be used for serving sweets, sugar or similar. They can be prone to damage but this example remains in remarkably fine condition with neither damage nor repair and clear London hallmarks located by the top rim.