Hester Bateman Sugar Basket

This is a fantastic silver swing-handled basket made by the most important of all lady silversmiths, Hester Bateman. It is a truly superb example of Hester Bateman's finest work, both in terms of design and execution.

The body is bat-wing shaped and this is reflected in the shape of the pedestal foot too. The bright-cut engraved decoration is wonderful with each panel individually framed and a floral band around the top rim. There is a swing handle which appropriately bears a lion passant and is reeded to match the base and top rims. Originally for sugar, but nowadays multi-purpose in function, this good-sized basket is in excellent condition throughout and there is a clear set of hallmarks to the underside.