Lewis & Smith Antique Coin Silver Bread Basket, Philadelphia, 1805-1810

Harvey Lewis was a famous and important Philadelphia classical silversmith whose works are represented in major museums. His early partnership with Joseph D. Smith dates from 1805-1810. 

This unusual form is of rectangular shape with an attached pedestal base with a reeded foot. The hand-raised body is masterfully executed with a plain interior and flaring side walls. Decorating the interior of the wall is lovely hand-engraved foliate scrolls against a textured background with a small cartouche on one end monogrammed 'JRS'.

The edge of the basket has applied die-rolled bands. Rare and technically challenging, the volute handles add another bold, classic feature.

This rare basket is marked on the interior of the base 'Lewis & Smith'. It measures 12.5 inches long by 4 inches high at the handles. It is in very good antique condition with a couple minor scratches to the interior.