Wakelin & Taylor

This elegant set of silver baskets, (twol unmarked) are distinguished examples of 18th-century silversmithing. Each piece is crafted in a shaped oval form and features a decorative border of C-scrolls and acanthus leaves—classic motifs that reflect the Rococo influence of the period. The pierced sides add both visual delicacy and craftsmanship, while the center of each dish is engraved with the armorial bearings of Edward Hase and his wife, Virtue Repps, along with a later Art Deco monogram, suggesting a continued appreciation and personalization of these heirlooms across generations.

The dishes are supported on collet feet fashioned in a rope-twist design and further pierced, enhancing their ornamental character. With a combined weight of 68 ounces, the pieces are not only visually striking but also substantial in quality and form.

The engraved arms belong to Edward Hase (1732–1804), Esquire of Salle Hall in Norfolk, and his wife, Virtue Repps (1732–1801), of Mattishall, Norfolk. The couple were married in 1754 in East Dereham, a union that brought together two notable Norfolk families. Edward Hase was the son of John Hase (1684–1761) and Mary Lombe (1688–1775). A figure of some prominence in his time, Edward Hase was responsible for the construction of the grand Salle Hall in 1761, a lasting architectural contribution to the region.

Virtue Repps, his wife, was the daughter and co-heiress of John Repps (1705–1751) of Maitland and Virtue Boardman (1695–1733). Her heritage reflects the strength of landed and influential families in 18th-century Norfolk society.