Posted 10 years ago
Cowsfordays
(1 item)
I've just acquired my 1st piece of art nouveau silver. It says Ball Black & Co.
Also I looked up the maker, who I believe is George Sharp. Also barely shown is a very small mark which I can hardly make out. I think it's a 5 of an "S".
I really can't tell.
Antique bride's basket in an art nouveau design by Ball Black and Co. The basket is 5 3/4 inches long and 4 1/2 inches wide (includes side design relief). The basket height at the ends is 3 1/4 inches. Height with handle extended is 6 1/4 inches. One end of the basket bears the monogram of "K O'G".
It is in very good vintage condition. No dings or dents.
My questions are, I thought George Sharp was exclusive to Bailey & Co. Also, would this be sterling, coin, or plated?
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
stunning!!!! and welcome to cw!!!
Beautiful-- the form looks like a sugar basket.
scott
Thanks Sean68!! Can't wait to post more!!
Your very welcome Cowsfordays!!! cant wait to see more!!! :)
Scottvez, I think your right, it was sold to me as a "brides basket".
Very Nice. see if your marks match any of these http://925-1000.com/.
I have been told sterling will either be marked sterling or have a number 925.
Don't go by what I said because I am learning.
I would think it was silver. The deep engraving would have hit the base metal and discolored by now.
T A
its sterling!!! has the lions
I would get it tested at a jewelry store!!!
Thanks for all the effort you guys, the 2 lions and the "S" refers to the silversmith
George Sharp , who worked out of Philadelphia. Ball. Black & co. was also in the USA. So it american silver. I just wanted to know if anyone can tell me if they ever heard of certain silversmith working out of their exclusive office. In Sharp's case, it was Bailey's, again in Philadelphia. I'll probably have it tested, I just don't like to harm it. It's so beautiful, and I got at such a steal!!!! $42.00. Wow!!!
Not actually, I still not positive it's sterling, as american silversmiths did work in fine, sterling, coin, and plated! Ol' George was famous for his flatware, but obviously made other items as well, in all types of silver.
http://925-1000.com/americansilver_S3.html
This shows his hallmark, 2 lions and the "S".
I believe the hallmark that's on mine is when he worked for Bailey. He worked on his own after 1860's. your mark is for that.
I know, it's a real mystery piece. I do love it though, so pretty! I appreciate all your investigations. When I get it tested, I will mark it "SOLVED". You've all been great!!!