Edward Aldridge

Made in London, 1764

Maker’s Mark of Edward Aldridge II

Silver Gilt

Width: 13cm (5.1 in)

Height (with handle standing): 12.5cm (4.9 in)

Length: 16cm (6.3 in)

Weight: 198gr (6.4oz)

This is a beautiful example of an 18th century sterling silver gilt bon bon dish made in London in 1764. It has been made to the highest standards and all the piercing has been done by hand and has remained in the most beautiful condition. The handle is also exquisite and is decorated throughout with this rococo floral decoration. The basket is fully hallmarked as would be expected.

The maker of this sweetmeat basket was Edward Aldridge II. Aldridge and his uncle Edward Aldridge I were both very famous silversmiths working in London in the mid 18th century producing outstanding pieces mostly in the mid 18th century rococo style. Both Aldridge I and the II specialised in making large bread baskets for the table and very rarely they made almost exact miniature versions as bon bon dishes such as this. Therefore what is so special is that these small objects are made to the exact same very high standards as a large basket which make them very rare and highly collectable.

This piece has been gilded (sterling silver covered in gold). This was probably done during the 19th century when it was very fashionable to do such a thing and for me it only adds to the piece. The gold colour looks so chic and lends itself beautifully to an item such as a bon bon dish. What makes this piece even more special is that there is an almost identical basket in the very famous Victoria & Albert Museum Collection in London.