What were silver centrepiece baskets used for?

These vessels sat in the middle of formal dining tables to present seasonal fruit, bread or sweetmeats to guests. They added height and visual interest to the table setting. In some configurations, smaller baskets hung from a central frame as part of a larger epergne arrangement for serving delicacies.

How do I clean a silver basket with a glass liner?

Remove the glass liner entirely before treating the metal to avoid exposing the glass to polishing compounds or harsh cleaning agents. Wash the glass separately in warm soapy water. Use a soft cloth and a gentle silver polish formulated for sterling silver or silver plate, taking care around pierced lattice work and engraved areas.

How can I tell Old Sheffield Plate from silver plate?

Old Sheffield Plate was made by fusing silver to copper, so you can often spot a thin line of copper showing along exposed edges or worn high points. Electroplated nickel silver, introduced later, reveals a greyish base metal underneath where the silver wears away. Old Sheffield pieces also tend to exhibit heavier construction and hand-finished details distinct from later mass-produced electroplate.

Can I use these baskets for daily dining?

Solid silver and sturdy silver plated baskets tolerate careful everyday use for holding fruit or dry bread. You must handle them gently to protect delicate swing handles and pierced rims. Pieces with fragile glass liners or antique Old Sheffield Plate deserve more cautious handling and suit occasional display or gentle service.