Sweetmeat Basket 1791 - 1800

This sweetmeat basket was crafted by W. G. Forbes around the late 18th to early 19th century. The most striking feature is the laurel wreath encircling the front. In ancient Greece, laurel wreaths were awarded to victors and heroes. It's fascinating to consider how this symbol of triumph has evolved. We see it adorning the brows of Roman emperors, signifying power and divine favor. It reappears in Renaissance paintings, framing the heads of triumphant figures. In this humble basket, it takes on a more subtle meaning. Does it celebrate the sweetness contained within, or perhaps the refined taste of its owner? The wreath speaks to our collective memory, evoking feelings of admiration and honor. This seemingly simple motif connects us to a long lineage of cultural expression. It embodies the enduring human desire to commemorate achievements, passed down through generations, each imbuing it with new significance.