Hester Bateman Sweet Basket, 1787

This is a very pretty silver sweet basket and typical of the type produced by Hester Bateman. It has a delicately pierced border with engraved swags of flowers. This navette-shaped basket stands on a pierced pedestal foot and has a hinged, swing handle. The beading that is repeated around the body, foot and handle is a trademark feature of Hester Bateman's output from the 1780's. It is in excellent condition, although the hallmarks are tired - but still legible - and this is reflected in the competitive price.