Harvey Lewis Antique Coin Silver Swing-handle Basket, Philadelphia, 1811-1828

Harvey Lewis was a famous and important Philadelphia classical silversmith whose works are represented in many major museums. This rare basket is exceptionally elegant with a beautifully shaped, circular bowl with just the right amount of classical decoration.

The stepped pedestal base has a simple ring of fine beading around its midpoint.

The bowl with flaring rim is bordered by a die-rolled band of large beading between rows of fine beading.

The swing handle has chased waterleaf decorations rising from the joins. The top is engraved with waterleaf along with foliage and flowers bordering an oval device engraved with an 'EG' monogram.

This rare basket is marked underneath 'H. LEWIS/ PHILA' within rectangular punches and behind the rim of the foot 'HARVEY LEWIS/ PHILA' again in rectangular punches.The bowl measures 10 inches in diameter by 4.5 inches high. With the handle up, it measures 10 inches to the top. This rare antique silver basket is in excellent antique condition with light traces of firescale (visible in the photos).