Pairpoint Silver Plate, Footed/Handled Aesthetic Movement, Bride's Basket/Tray

Description

The listing is for a footed, handled, silver basket, sometimes
referred
to today as a "bride's basket," made by Pairpoint Manufacturing Company of New Bedford, Massachusetts.
The silver stamp indicates the date of production is likely prior to 1900 since the company started using the name "The Pairpoint Corporation" in 1900. The tray diameter is 9 1/2" and it stands 2 1/4" tall on the footed base. With the handle up, the height is about 9" tall.
The rim of the plate is decorated with a motif of sunrises, triangles formed by stems and leaves, and small flowers. The center of the dish is etched with an image of a plant (lemon tree?) in a pot with a decorative frame at the base. The top of the handle is decorated with scrolls and scallops. The footed base is comprised of scrolls that echo the motif of the handle and rim. A lovely design overall. The geometric border design and the Asian-influenced etched image indicate this piece has been rendered in the style of the Aesthetic Movement.
The condition of the piece is fair, consistent with being over 100 years old. There is no wear to the silver plating but there are surface scratches and blemishes, as well as a slight warp in the plate--see photos for details.
The silver stamp includes the number "1203" machine-stamped and "x11-48" etched by hand.
These trays or baskets were popular in the 1880s as a luxury item for a bride on her wedding day, often used by the flower girl to hold flower petals as she walked down the aisle, and afterward to hold the bridal bouquet at the wedding reception. Later it took pride of place in the couple's home to hold sweets or fruit.
The Pairpoint Manufacturing Company was founded by Thomas J. Pairpoint in 1880 in New Bedford, Massachusetts, making glass, silver-plated items, and lamps. It evolved over the years under various names and now makes luxury glass items.
Add a piece of American history to your wedding celebration or table!