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If I'm understanding my research correctly, this basket was made in London in 1745. But the maker's Mark "ca" is a mystery. The only name close to that era was Charles Aldridge, but this piece seems to be a little early for him to have made. Any information would be helpful. Cheers!

Hi,

Welcome to the Forum.

Right family, wrong silversmith. The letters are 'EA', Edward Aldridge of Foster Lane. Edward was probably the uncle of Charles.

See: viewtopic.php?f=74&t=33021&p=83463&hilit=aldridge#p83463

and: viewtopic.php?f=74&t=23060&p=70399&hilit=aldridge#p70399

Trev.

dognose wrote:Hi,

Welcome to the Forum.

Right family, wrong silversmith. The letters are 'EA', Edward Aldridge of Foster Lane. Edward was probably the uncle of Charles.

See: viewtopic.php?f=74&t=33021&p=83463&hilit=aldridge#p83463

and: viewtopic.php?f=74&t=23060&p=70399&hilit=aldridge#p70399

Trev.

Thanks for the information. What percentage of silver was used then? Also , I am looking to shine this up, what should I use? I've never owned a piece this old so I want to care for it right. I saved it from a local flea market.

(admin edit - see Posting Requirements )

The standard is Sterling, as denoted by the Lion Passant.

Check out the topics in this section of the forum for silver care:

viewforum.php?f=34

Trev.

dognose wrote:The standard is Sterling, as denoted by the Lion Passant.

Check out the topics in this section of the forum for silver care:

viewforum.php?f=34

Trev.

Do you have any information on the Crest?