Victorian Antique Art Glass Richardson Webb or Stevens and Williams Basket
This is a beautiful example of early Victorian Art Glass and is monumental in size. The flint quality is superior. Most likely made by Thomas Webb. This is probably the largest Art Glass Basket I've seen in 25 years.
It measures 10"L x 8 1/2"W x 12T. This was not simply a decorative item. Because of it's large size it was most likely a Handled Fruit Basket. It is simply stunning and very rare to find in a plain Blue Opalescent color. This was not something that the average person could afford to own at the time.
The applied clear crystal is that of Strawberries and Stems and Leaves. Even the Strawberries have applied leaves on top of them. A lot of very detailed work. The applied decoration is the same on both sides. There are four separately applied feet. The thorn handle is attached to the pinched rigaree that circles the entire top edge. The feet are factory ground but there is still a very slight wobble. A thin piece of paper attached to the bottom of one foot will correct the wobble without any problem.
The weight is substantial because of the flint content. As seen in the photos there is some slightly dirty spots. This is normal dirt that has been built up over the past 100 plus years. I have not cleaned it.
I'll leave that up to it's next owner. To give you some idea of it's large size, it is photographed next to a smaller Handled Basket that is 9 3/4 tall. This Blue Opalescent Basket is in excellent condition with no chips or cracks and no mineral deposit. It is remarkable that there are no nicks or lines in the applied crystal. As with any of this early art glass there may be tiny areas that are rough to the touch. This is normal for this early delicate type of Art Glass. Any unusual white or dark spots shown.
In the photos are from camera glare. This will make a great accessory to any Victorian home.
The item "Victorian Antique Art Glass Richardson Webb or Stevens and Williams Basket" is in sale since Sunday, December 6, 2015. This item is in the category "Pottery & Glass\Glass\Art Glass\British\Other British Art Glass".
The seller is "ainventor" and is located in Gibsonton, Florida. This item can be shipped worldwide.
