Late Victorian Silver Plate Pierced Footed Cake or Fruit Basket
Hollowware (Cake Basket / Pierced Bowl with Swing Handle) · Likely British, such as Elkington & Co. or Barker Ellis. These manufacturers defined the high-quality silver plate market in the 19th century using electroplating techniques on nickel silver (EPNS).
Pattern: Neo-Rococo Floral and Pierced Lattice Pattern; typically an uncatalogued trade pattern prevalent among Sheffield and Birmingham makers.
Type
Hollowware (Cake Basket / Pierced Bowl with Swing Handle)
Maker
Likely British, such as Elkington & Co. or Barker Ellis. These manufacturers defined the high-quality silver plate market in the 19th century using electroplating techniques on nickel silver (EPNS).
Material
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS) or Silver Plate over copper. It features a base of non-precious metal covered in a thin layer of pure silver through electrolysis.
Dimensions
Estimated 25-30 cm in diameter and 20-25 cm height with handle raised. Weight is likely 600-900 grams, as plated pieces are often heavier than their sterling counterparts due to the base metal density.
Description
This is a quintessential Victorian table accessory designed for the presentation of fruit, cakes, or breads. The bowl features a deeply scalloped rim with high-relief floral chasing surrounding panels of intricately pierced lattice. The mirror-finish well of the bowl contrasts beautifully against the textured borders. It sits atop a pedestal foot that echoes the beaded or gadrooned motif of the rim, creating a harmonious and prestigious tea-time centerpiece.
Key Features
Hinged swing handle, high-relief floral chasing, pierced openwork panels, and a stepped circular foot.
Material & Composition
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS) or Silver Plate over copper. It features a base of non-precious metal covered in a thin layer of pure silver through electrolysis.
Finish & Decoration
Bright-polished finish featuring extensive repoussé floral motifs, chased scrollwork, and die-cut pierced lattice or 'honeycomb' work. The rim is likely finished with a cast gadroon or shell border.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expected marks include 'EPNS', 'A1' (to indicate best quality plate), or a maker's mark consisting of initials in shields. True sterling hallmarks (Lion Passant) are unlikely to be found on this specific design.
Construction Details
The body is likely die-struck from a sheet and then hand-pierced. The foot and the swing handle are cast separately and attached via pivot pins and soldering. The handle is hinged for movement.
Functional Features
Includes a functional swing handle for ease of passing during tea or dessert service. The footed base provides stability and elevation for visual impact on a tabletop.
Handle & Grip Details
Wire-form or cast swing handle with a central knop for grip. It is attached to the bowl via two pivot points and should stay upright when positioned or fold flat to the rim.
Craftsmanship Details
Excellent die-struck detailing. The symmetry in the piercing indicates high-quality machine dies, while the chasing at the center shows hand-finishing characteristic of premium Victorian plated wares.
Authentication Indicators
The crispness of the piercing suggests a high-quality manufacturer. The lack of distinct UK Sterling Assay marks in the high-res areas suggests a plated origin. Wear patterns around the hinge pins are consistent with an age of approximately 100+ years.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Sheffield or Birmingham, England. These cities were the global centers for silver-plate production during the industrial revolution.
Era & Period
Late Victorian (c. 1880-1901). The heavy use of rococo revival scrolls combined with industrial piercing techniques is characteristic of this opulent period.
Age Estimate
Circa 1890-1910 based on the complexity of the die-work and the style of the handle pivot joints.
Cultural Significance
Represents the aspiration of the 19th-century middle class to emulate the 'stately home' lifestyle by utilizing high-quality silver plate that looked identical to solid silver at a fraction of the cost.
Condition Notes
Very Good condition overall. Some light tarnish is visible in the recesses of the floral work. Some 'bleeding' (base metal showing through) may occur on the high points of the handle or rim with over-polishing. No visible dents or structural repairs.
Value Estimate
$75 - $175 (USD) in the current antique market. Value is driven by decorative appeal rather than silver weight.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver foam and a soft horsehair brush for the pierced sections. Dry thoroughly to prevent water spots. Store in a Pacific Silvercloth bag to minimize tarnish.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. sterling baskets (higher value, solid silver) or American quad-plate baskets (often darker gray tone, more matte).
Interesting Facts
The swing handle basket was originally designed in the 18th century as a 'bread basket' for the dining table, but by the Victorian era, it became a multipurpose vessel for sweet treats and fruits.