Fruit basket, Art Nouveau, silver-plated brass, WMF, Germany, early 20th century

Art Nouveau fruit basket by WMF, made in Germany at the beginning of the 20th century, represents the characteristic Jugendstil blend of craftsmanship and decoration. The silver-plated brass body is kept in a cool, silvery tone, with visible local patina discolorations in blue, brown, and grey shades, creating an iridescent glow and varied texture – from shiny to matte. The round, wide bowl with a high, arched handle is decorated with an openwork frieze of flowing, plant-like lines and stylised ribbon and flower motifs. Inside is a thick, clear, smooth glass insert, precisely fitted to the metal frame. The careful construction with invisible joints and meticulous metalwork details highlights the craftsmanship of the WMF manufactory. The proportions between the bowl and the handle are harmonious, and the whole stands stably on a flat base. Condition is very good: visible local patina marks and minor surface abrasions, without serious damage or intervention. This basket evokes the spirit of Art Nouveau – a time when art permeated everyday life, and utilitarian objects gained freedom of form inspired by nature. The metal wraps the glass in a fluid gesture, reminiscent of stems and vines, which then symbolised an escape from the rigidity of previous decades. The patina does not hide the age but emphasises it, giving the surface a poetic record of the passing years. Every detail breathes the story of an era in which the harmony of line and decoration was synonymous with modernity. In the interior, the basket can serve as a decorative centrepiece on a dining table or console in the living room. It can be combined with other Art Nouveau items – glass vases with colourful motifs, pewter candlesticks – or, for contrast, with a minimalist background, highlighting the sculptural character of the metal and glass. It fits well in eclectic, historical, and classic arrangements, where its expressive details will be appreciated. It is worth combining it with fabrics of smooth texture, so as not to compete with the openwork decoration and subtle silver sheen.