A Wonderful Solid Silver Basket Victorian - Martin Hall & Co 1900

Description and Details 

We are delighted to offer this wonderful Victorian solid silver basket made by silversmith Martin Hall & Co of Sheffield in 1900.

This basket features an array of ornate and delightful characteristics from the pierced angular sides of the bowl to the intricate hand-engraved band of flowers that present an engraved cartouche in the centre. 

The edge of the basket presents a chased border of acanthus leaves that is continued to the applied handle. The handle itself is fixed and does not swing/collapse. 

The basket rests on four stippled feet which slightly raises the basket and allows light to pass through the pierced motifs.

Due to the fairly large and flared sides, the basket allows for flexible usage whether it be for fruits, cakes, bread or even flowers as a bride's basket. Baskets were traditionally used by servants who would carry food to serve the owners of wealthy households, however, later on, such baskets were often also used to hold flowers as the 'flower girls'/'junior bridesmaids' would scatter the petals in a celebratory manner.

 A painting of a Victorian Wedding Scene.

Full set of hallmarks are clearly present on the basket.

A wonderful addition to those looking to add an ornate yet practical piece of silverware whether be it for display, interior decor or modern-day usage - one can imagine how magnificent such pieces would appear upon usage with sweets/afternoon tea today. 

Size