Antique Sterling Silver Basket Pincushion

English * Circa 1820

This solid sterling silver (tested) pincushion basket is embossed and chased on the sides with bands of acanthus style leaves. It's beaded around the top edge and has a textured design on the bottom. The twisted silver handle swivels and it has a velvet pincushion. English silversmiths didn't hallmark small items (and have to pay duty on them) until required to by law in the early 1880s.

The condition is excellent with no dents, repairs or other damage. The cushion is in great condition and stuck with a lot of old handmade pins. It measures 1 3/8" wide, 5/8" deep and 1 7/8" high (with the handle up). Two silver basket pincushions from this era are shown on p. 155 of Gay Ann Rogers' book An Illustrated History of Needlework Tools

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The membership benefits are outstanding. They have a convention every two years where you'll have a chance to attend great programs and meet others sharing your interests. You will receive an excellent quarterly magazine, the "Bulletin". The member's sections of the website have dozens of research articles, hundreds of fake and repro items to beware of and price guides. There is also a chat room where you can ask questions and get expert feedback about your collection. Check them out today at thimblecollectors dot com.