Vintage Silver Plated Pierced Basket with Swing Handle
Hollowware - Basket / Compote · Unknown Maker, likely mid-20th century mass-market silver plate manufacturer
Pattern: Pierced Floral Scroll and Lattice Pattern
Type
Hollowware - Basket / Compote
Maker
Unknown Maker, likely mid-20th century mass-market silver plate manufacturer
Material
Silver Plated Metal (EPNS over base metal such as brass or nickel silver)
Dimensions
Estimated diameter approximately 20-25 cm (8-10 inches); height with handle up approximately 30 cm (12 inches); weight estimated between 400-700 grams
Description
An attractive vintage silver-plated decorative basket featuring an openwork wire and pierced sheet metal construction. The wide circular bowl is framed by a decorative pierced band showcasing a repeating scroll and floral motif. The lower portion utilizes a structural wire cage design converging into a raised pedestal foot with matching pierced detailing. A tall, elegant swing handle arches high above the rim, providing a balanced profile typical of table presentation baskets used for bread, fruit, or decorative arrangements.
Key Features
Tall vertical swing handle, pierced decorative rim band, wire-form lower body, and elevated circular pedestal base
Material & Composition
Silver Plated Metal (EPNS over base metal such as brass or nickel silver)
Finish & Decoration
Polished silver plate finish with pierced lattice-work, repeating floral bands, and scrollwork borders
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in current imagery; typically stamped on the base rim if present
Construction Details
Combination of stamped pierced sheet metal bands, wire-formed cage construction, and machine-soldered joints
Functional Features
Collapsible vertical swing handle for easy access and serving, elevated pedestal base for display elevation
Handle & Grip Details
Tall, arched single swing handle made of rigid metal wire with soldered pivot attachments at opposing sides of the rim
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-assisted stamping and wire-forming combined with hand-assembly and soldering typical of mid-century commercial decorative hollowware production
Authentication Indicators
Typical construction methods and decorative stamping align with mid-20th-century silver-plated decorative wares; requires physical inspection for maker stamps to confirm exact origin
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in the United States, England, or continental Europe during the mid-century mass-production era
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (c. 1940-1970)
Age Estimate
circa 1950-1970
Cultural Significance
Reflects the post-WWII domestic trend toward accessible decorative hollowware that brought decorative elegance to everyday middle-class dining
Condition Notes
Appears to be in very good vintage condition with minor surface tarnish and light wear consistent with age and display use; silver plating remains intact
Value Estimate
Estimated market value ranges between $25 and $75 USD depending on maker, exact weight, and current condition
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with a soft cloth and mild silver polish; avoid abrasive cleaners that could compromise the thin silver plating; store in a dry environment
Similar Pieces
Similar silver-plated fruit baskets and cake baskets produced by major mid-century silver manufacturers such as International Silver Co. or Wallace
Interesting Facts
Such baskets were traditionally used on dining tables or sideboards for holding rolls of bread, seasonal fruit, or floral centerpieces during formal and semi-formal gatherings