A Walter Charles Baker arts and crafts silver basket

Price: Sold

I am always drawn to unusual silver by obscure arts and crafts silversmiths and this is certainly no exception.

This basket was made by Walter Charles Baker.  He was born in Bristol in 1879 and appears to have been a silversmith for just a few years between 1905-10  He registered his WCB mark in 1905.  Prior to being a silversmith he was a landlord or manager of letters (renters).  In the 1911 census his occupation is given as a private chauffeur.  It is not clear where, or when, he trained as a silversmith.

This basket is the only piece I have found by Baker.  It’s design is notable.  Whilst it is has elements from the aesthetic movement it is altogether a modern and substantial piece at over 30 cm long and 825 grams.  Surprisingly practical by my normal standards.

Maker:  Walter Charles Baker

Designer:  Walter Charles Baker

Date: 1906

Marks: WCB, London, “l”

Material: Sterling silver

Condition: Excellent

Size: 30 cm long, 20 cm wide

Weight: 825  grams , 29.1 oz