Old Sheffield Plate Cutwork Sugar Basket Tongs Set Silverplate 1790s

Old Sheffield silverplate set of a sugar basket with tongs. Basket has footed oval form body in cut-work designs and swing handle, foot has beaded rim. Tongs feature ornate rims and engraved floral motifs on the handles. c. 1790-1800. This admirable basket is 6 1/2" long, 3 7/8" wide and 4 5/8" tall. There is a minor damage to handle, but hinges are good. Tongs are 5" long. The soft, warm, original finish is present, with no buffing or machine polishing. The excellent original condition, having use marks consistent with age and normal use, with no monograms, removals, repairs or modifications, make this an especially attractive offering.