Towards the end of the eighteenth century little silver baskets were used for various methods of handwork where a continuous supply of thread was required, such as tambour and crochet work. With only a few exceptions these small thread containers were made of silver. They were round or oval-shaped and mostly decorated with an openwork pattern. These silver baskets were made for a short period of time from approximately 1800 to 1850 The silver thread basket shown here was made in Leeuwarden, The Netherlands, by silversmith Paulus Riddersma Cabboes in 1857. The basket has a year letter mark "X" for 1857, Silver mark .800 1814-1853, Assay Office mark 1814-1905 and the maker's mark for Paulus Riddersma Cabboes. The basket is 8cm. high (including handle), 7cm. diameter with a base of 4cm. The body of the basket is 4.5cm. high and weighs 32.4 grams. Condition is MINT with clear engraving on the handle. An antique thread basket is rare to find today and an interesting addition to a silver and/or handwork tool collection. Careful packaging will ensure a safe delivery. See my feedback on Catawiki.