Metals
Harvey Lewis (Maker)
Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Mid-Atlantic, United States, North America
1815-1825
Silver
Wrought
2018.0046.003
Object Number2018.0046.003 |
Basket (Bowl)
Metals
Gift of Sue K. and Stuart P. Feld
Harvey Lewis (Maker)-1835
Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Mid-Atlantic, United States, North America
1815-1825
1. Mark; Base underside, either side of center punch; "HARVEY.LEWIS" stamped in rectangle twice
2. Mark; Base underside, foot rim interior; "HARVEY.LEWIS" stamped
3. Inscription; Base, underside of dome; "434050248" engraved electronically
4. Inscription; Base, foot rim interior; "6081" scratched
5. Inscription; Handle, exterior center; "S" in shaded Gothic letter, engraved
Dining
Silver
Wrought
6 (H) , 10.25 (Diam) , 33.3 (Weight)
15.24 (H) , 26.035 (Diam) , 943 (Weight)
[Dimensions provided by donor were probably with handle extended.] Bowl height to rim is 5.0" and with handle laying down height is 6.0." Diameter of bowl is 10.0" and diameter of foot is 5.0." The diameter above is overall, with handle hinges.
This circular bowl or cake basket has a broad opening with a flat semi-circular handle hinged on the top edge and is supported by a high-domed, stepped circular foot. The rhythmic geometry of the form is echoed in knurled or applied die-rolled beaded borders of different sizes ornamenting the bowl and base. Subtle engraved and chased branches of paired, graduated leaves adorn either side of the handle, which also has at the midpoint an oval wreath of paired leaves enclosing the initial "S." Harvey Lewis's surviving work exhibits a mixture of superbly made plain taste as well as more ambitious and eclectic designs in silver. This cake basket fits the former category and likely was made for a patron desiring a new circular cake basket form, but not the sculptural cast and applied ornament Lewis also offered at the time (see: oblong cake basket 1966.0120). Lewis received steady patronage in Philadelphia and his table and tea wares are represented in many museum collections.