Ikenobo Basket Accessories Appraisal

Silver-Plated Flower Frog Basket

This item is a small, silver-plated flower frog basket, approximately 4-6 inches in height including the handle. It features a trapezoidal or flared bucket-like body, wider at the top and tapering towards a circular footed base. The material appears to be silver-plated metal, exhibiting a tarnished patina consistent with age and exposure, ranging from dull gray to darker blackish tones in recessed areas. The interior, visible through the top opening, includes a removable or fixed 'flower frog' insert, which is a perforated disc designed to hold flower stems in place. This disc has multiple small, uniformly sized holes arranged in a grid pattern. A small, decorative finial or central element is also visible on this insert. A delicate, arched handle is attached to the upper rim of the basket, likely through small loops or hinges, allowing it to be carried. On one side of the basket, an additional small, decorative handle or loop is present, further enhancing its visual appeal. The overall construction suggests a decorative item, possibly for holding a small arrangement of flowers or serving as a sweetmeat basket. The craftsmanship appears to be commercial, indicative of mass production for home decor or dining use. There are no obvious maker's marks or signatures discernible from the image, but the style suggests a vintage aesthetic, likely mid-20th century.