In the northern most tip of England, bordering Scotland to the north and with the North Sea to the east, is the rugged and rural county of Northumberland. A picturesque land of rolling hills and untouched coastline dotted with crumbling castles, ancient market towns and the largest area of protected dark night sky in all of Europe.

In that vast expanse of unspoiled land are various "hunts" - large tracts of forest where clubs organize traditional fox hunts using hounds.* (Think hunters on horseback wearing fitted jackets and riding pants with a pack of baying hounds leading the way.) The Haydon Hunt is one such hunt that has existed since 1803.

In addition to the well-established, organized fox hunts, Haydon Hunt also once hosted traditional dog shows as well as equestrian events with proud animal owners coming from far and wide to compete.  

Found at market in the north of England, a gleaming silverplate cake basket that was given as a 1st place trophy at the Haydon Hunt dog show. From the engraved inscription at the center of the basket:

The basket itself is lavishly detailed with a scalloped outer edge, richly decorated swing handle and brightly engraved intricate detailing and decorative embellishments overall. Produced in Sheffield by the long-shuttered silversmiths of James Dixon & Sons, this captivating and storied cake basket is perfect for cakes, breads or fruits.

This magnificent basket will ensure you win 1st prize for serving with the certain loveliness of the Victorian era.

(*As hunting with dogs is now illegal in England, the hunts today are conducted using trails that have been artificially laid with the scent of a fox.)

One-of-a-kind and subject to prior sale. Circa 1880s. In very good antique condition. Measures 11"D x 10.5" tall from base to top of raised handle.

Learn More About Cake 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.