Notes
This 18th century chestnut basket, alternatively used as a bread basket, is similar to one used by Patrick Henry at Red Hill.
Chestnut baskets are a type of basket that were designed to serve hot, peeled chestnuts. The pierced sides of the basket allow the steam to escape so the chestnuts can be safely enjoyed. They can also be used to serve small cread buns for small dinners, as is the case in its interpretation at Red Hill.
This basket is made from a type of ceramic called creamware. Creamware was popular in the colonies due to its relatively low-cost and the ability to buy matching place settings. It was also popular because of its hard, more durable body which allowed people to cut food on it without damaging the glazed surface. Creamware was manufactured for the American market and could be plain with simple rims or decorated with figures or messages.
"1 bre. Basket" and "1 bread basket" appears in Patrick Henry's 1799 and 1802 inventories of Red Hill, respectively. As it was not listed with Henry's silver pieces, it can be assumed the basket was ceramic rather than silver.
PHMF purchased this basket from South Street Antiques on September 25, 2023.