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Description
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.