Exquisitely and realistically carved, this white marble basket overflows with a selection of fashionable fruits — luxuries that would have been rare and highly prized in the 18th century.

Echoing the period’s fascination with trompe l’œil art, which sought to deceive the eye with lifelike illusion, and reflecting the contemporary passion for Grand Tour marble sculpture, this piece was almost certainly created in England as a highly fashionable and desirable decorative object.

With expected wear and minor losses consistent with age — see images for details.