Antique Silver Seashell Basket

Fabulous antique Victorian silver plate basket was made by the Pairpoint Silver Company and is quadrupleplated.  The British designer Thomas Pairpoint resigned as chief designer of the famed Meridian Silver Company and started his own business in 1880.  This gorgeous piece invokes the Victorian's fascination with nature, specifically sea life.  This basket has a moveable handle and stands 10" tall.  It sits on ornate feet but the most amazing part is the detailed repousse seashell design in the center.  Repousse means hammered from beneath instead of engraved. This unique and decorative item is a special and unusual antique centerpiece.