The grand Apsley House opened it doors for visitors during London Craft Week to showcase works by modern silversmiths. Contemporary British Silversmiths, the association whose artists showcased their work during the event, is devoted to preserving and promoting silversmithing's historic craft within the framework of contemporary design.
The organization promotes innovation and talent exchange to secure the future of modern silver craftsmanship, as well as providing support to existing and aspiring creators.
They showed how the same processes used to create fine modern silver can be found in the spectacular antique silver on show at the Wellington Collection.
Alice Fry, who'd pitched tent in the entry hall, was the first silversmith we came across. She exhibited chase and repoussé methods in silversmithing. After that, visitors could then go around the rooms to see and hear from other contemporary craftsmen.
Besides silversmithing, we learnt a little bit of history about the majestic Apsley House and the collections there. It was designed and built between 1771 and 1778 for the 2nd Earl Bathurst (later Baron Apsley) by Robert Adam. In 1807 the house was bought by Marquess Wellesley, the eldest brother of the 1st Duke of Wellington. By 1817 Wellesley was in financial difficulties so he was fortunate to be able to sell the house to his younger brother for £42,000.
The Wellington Collection of paintings, silver, and porcelain is a world-renowned collection. Following Waterloo, several of the objects were delivered to the 1st Duke of Wellington. It features the Portuguese Centrepiece, one of Europe's best neo-classical silver works, created over the course of four years by 150 artisans.
After Wellington's victory over Napoleon at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815, European monarchs showered him with gifts, many on display in this room. The presents were so numerous that Wellington had to create a room dedicated to their display which became the Wellington Collection.
It was great viewing the ancient silverware and witnessing what the Contemporary British Silversmiths association continues to do to encourage innovative thinking, design, and craftsmanship quality; and assisting its members in their attempts to raise the craft's profile and develop their businesses.
Their silversmithing network and graduate mentor program provide educational support. To attain these goals, work with industry partners and create chances for talent transfer and outreach. As such, they are indeed a vital point of contact for everyone interested in modern silverware and a crucial forum for silversmiths across the country.
