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Hi All - any help identifying the maker - or information about him would be appreciated. I believe the fruit basket dates to 1894. it's about 40cm (with handles) by 20cm and most attractive. Marks scattered all over the place and apologies for the pictures but they were quite difficult to photograph but at least the maker's mark M over G is clear. Minerva on the foot, makers mark and lion passant on the side above the one cartouche and year letter on the cartouche on the other side. - Many thanks Frank

Hi Rat-tail,

Nice bread basket but can also be used for fruits.
The spreading of the marks (by order of 1st Feb.1814) was done to prevent fraud but proved not to be effective in the long run. As from 1953 the English marking system is followed; all marks close together.

M underlined above C for; the widow of Cornelis Johannes Middendorp with the maiden name; J.M.L Guldie, registered in the city of Rotterdam during 1889/1895
Date letter most probably K for 1894.
The Minerva head should show the letter D for regional assay office of Rotterdam.

Regards,

Oel

Hi Oel - many thanks for the info on Mev Middeldorp. - much appreciated. The marks are actually a lot clearer than the pictures suggest. I can just make out the D for Rotterdam and am sure it is the gothic k for 1894 (although gothic letters are always difficult - that london series from 1836 to 1855 always throws me). Appreciate the prompt response - regards Frank

PS - quite a prominent family of Guldie's in Durban. Didn't realise the name was of Dutch origin

Sorry that should read Middendorp - my dodgy typing

Yes, gothic date letters give me kopkrap and often make me blaps. The Middendorp’s could be one of the many ‘Voortrekkers’.

Asseblief & dankie, dit is nou tyd om te groet,

Oel