Antique George III English Silver Sugar Basket

• London, 1789 by Hester Bateman
• Dimensions: 8 1/2 inches tall (with handle up) and 6 7/8 inches width

The Neoclassical style of silver originated in 1760 and continued until the Regency period (circa 1830) and used many classical motifs. Some of the designs that were quite popular at that time were palm leaves, garlands, and swags. This style of silver is synonymous with the Adams style which followed the Rococo period. The Rococo style is incredibly ornate and very elaborate and therefore, the appeal of the Adams style silver was welcomed with its restrained themes and simpler motifs. Regarding neoclassical silver, the best place to start is with Hester Bateman, who is now considered one of the most famous and renowned female silversmiths.

An exquisite Antique George III English Silver swing-handled Sugar Basket made by Hester Bateman. It is truly a superb example of her work, both in terms of neoclassical design as well as execution. This sugar basket is bat-wing shaped and has wonderful bright-cut engraved decoration that resonates throughout the body. It has a gilt (gold-plated) interior. There is a swing handle with a reeded design that matches the top rims as well as the base.

Originally meant for sugar, this basket can also be used for sweets, candy, and of course sugar. Our Antique George III English Silver swing-handled Sugar Basket is in excellent condition throughout and there is a clear set of hallmarks on the underside. This is truly a lovely piece of 18th-century neoclassical English Silver.

To learn more about Hester Bateman, please refer back to Great Silversmiths under the Antique Silver section.