A Chinese export porcelain chestnut basket, measuring 6-3/4″ long and 2-1/2″ high, and decorated with a classic cobalt blue Nanking design.
Baskets such as these with pierced sides were used for fruit, so air could better circulate around the contents. They also had molded porcelain handles, gilded to look like they were made of metal.
How ironic that when the original porcelain “metal” handles broke off, they were replace with actual metal handles.
Metal staples and bolts were also used to help put this piece back together.
This basket in perfect condition, showing original gilt porcelain handles.
Photo courtesy of WorthPoint
Tags: blue & white, Chinese, metal handle, porcelain, staples/rivets