Found at a silver market in northern England, we are thrilled to offer this Antique Silverplate Basket with Green Milk Glass Liner - one of the prettiest baskets we've ever seen!  Richly ornate upon a gleaming pedestal, its distinctive openwork design highlights a vibrant spring green, exquisitely shaped milk glass liner and swing handle with articulated twist design.

With a decorative beaded pattern encircling the upper edge of the basket as well as the perimeter of the gracefully-shaped base, this shining basket is perfect for jam, condiments, candies or bonbons. A captivating piece from a bygone era, it is certain to be a magnificent addition to your silver or tableware collection.

Please note, the pearl handled jam spoon as shown in some of the photos is intended to give a sense of scale and is not included with the basket. Strictly one-of-a-kind and subject to prior sale. In very good antique condition. 6.5"L x 4.75"W x 6.5"H.

Learn More About Baskets

Decorative silver baskets for bread, cake, flowers or fruit became popular in England during the Georgian period, and continued to flourish during the Victorian and Edwardian eras. There were several reasons for their popularity: firstly, decorative silver baskets make excellent centerpieces. During the Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian eras the wealthy and middle classes loved to throw dinner parties. Displaying silver tableware and centerpieces was a means of demonstrating their wealth and taste.

Secondly, during these dinner parties, the handles of baskets ensured food could be passed around the table by guests rather than being served by staff; especially shared foods - such as bread, fruit, cakes and sweet treats. Cake baskets in particular, typically had a rolled-back rim so the guests could see the delicious baked goods readily from the table.

Lastly, the more types of serving pieces included on the dinner table, the more cultured and knowledgeable you were perceived to be.