Benjamin Smith II. An exceptional George III Bread or Fruit Basket made in London in 1813
Benjamin Smith II. An exceptional George III Bread or Fruit Basket made in London in 1813
142656
The Basket stands on a stepped rectangular foot, with rounded ends. The deep bowl is engraved with a contemporary Scottish Crest, with the Motto Sans Peur above. The outer rim of the main body is of a most unusual design which we have not previously encountered. The outer edge is decorated with a band of plain lobes enclosing a pierced band of detailed Rococo shells, flanked by acanthus foliage. This band also displays a wavy band of beading, which runs around the whole of the outer rim. The wide arched handle is decorated at the top, with a bold flower head and acanthus leaves, where it is attached to the main body. The basket is in excellent condition and is very well marked on the underside.
Before moving to London, to work closely with Paul Storr and the firm of Rundell & Bridge, Benjamin Smith lived and worked in Birmingham, for some time in partnership with Matthew Boulton. The quality of his work, either alone or in partnership, is comparable to that of Storr. His most important production is probably the Jamaica Service of 1803 in the Royal Collection.
The Crest and Motto are those of the Hagart family of Bantaskine, County Stirling, Scotland.
Dimensions:
1813
LONDON
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