Sheffield Cricket Toast Rack, Circa 1900

This is a unique, early 20th century English Sheffield silver-plated toast rack, designed with a cricket theme. The rack is made up of five sets of crossed cricket bats with a ring handle. There is a cricket ball at the base of the ring handle, as well as four balls that make up the feet of the toast rack. Dating to around 1900, this traditional toast rack would have been used as a table setting staple. A piece of English history, the toast rack was a staple of any proper table setting. “Dry toast may be made before it is wanted, and should be set up in the toast-rack the moment it is done,” writes A.M. Sargeant in the 1851 The Housemaid's Complete Guide. CONDITION: Overall good condition, especially considering age and use. Some visible discoloration due to past tarnish on the cricket bats, though otherwise free of damage. Dimensions: 6" H x 7.5" W. Accompanied by our company's letter of authenticity.