ANTIQUE SILVER SUGAR BASKETS
Antique Silver sugar baskets Description:
A type of small receptacle sometimes known as a sweetmeat basket intended for serving sweets, candies, or sugar.
Antique Silver sugar baskets History:
The earliest known examples date from the 1740s. They were made throughout the Georgian and Victorian periods in large numbers. They were also made in the twentieth century but in smaller numbers often with tea and coffee sets.
Antique Silver sugar baskets Design:
Normally a round, oval, or octagonal body, having a hinged swing handle, and sitting on a pedestal foot. Often engraved or hand-chased with floral decoration. The body sometimes hand-pierced or made from wire-work in which cases they should have a glass liner.
Antique Silver sugar baskets Collectors Note:
The hinged handle should be part-marked. Look closely for repairs around the two hinges, and where the foot joins the body. Check to make sure that there are no missing or damaged pieces within pierced areas or wire-work areas. Early pretty examples in good condition are most desirable.