Goldsmiths’ Company announces new acquisitions for 2020/2021

Dr Dora Thornton, Curator of the Goldsmiths’ Company says that the report of acquisitions reveals extraordinary examples of work made for the Collection. “Our commissions, and purchases recognise and celebrate the quality and handmaking skills of our craft. All the pieces contribute to our wider understanding of contemporary jewellery and silver. They tell stories about who we are and what we do.”

Showcasing new techniques: the Micromosaic technique

Highlights include the ‘Micromosaic Box’ commissioned from silversmith Patrick Davison. Inspired by Venetian Renaissance glassmaking and Paduan goldsmith Stefano Marchetti,

Davidson’s box features the micromosaic technique that he developed, incorporating silver, bronze, brass, copper and nickel silver.

The tiny tiles entail a painstaking process of several weeks of soldering and rolling, which requires extreme attention to detail. As part of the commission Davison attended a mentoring session with silversmith Ray Walton, a specialist box-maker and Freeman of the Company – highlighting the way commissions are used to help makers develop their knowledge, expertise and support network.

New to the Collection: Emefa Cole

New to the Collection is Emefa Cole, whose ‘Caldera’ ring exemplifies her interests in landscapes and geological processes such as erosion and the passing of time, combined with the memories and indelible impressions left by her childhood. Luxurious and considered, heavy on the hand, it exploits the contrast between the rugged gold interior of the bezel and the flawless oxidized silver surface of the band.

Noting the role that the Goldsmiths’ Company plays in supporting makers through acquisitions, Emefa said: “I am delighted to have a piece acquired by The Goldsmiths’ Company Collection, and to be amongst incredibly talented makers of the past and present. The acquisition serves as great encouragement for me to continue honing my craft in the quest for excellence. As makers, we cannot underestimate the importance of support and I am therefore immensely grateful.”

Dorothy Hogg: An ‘unparalleled craftswoman’

The Collection also welcomed seminal pieces from jeweller and educator, Dorothy Hogg, including the ‘Gold Tipped’ brooch, the ‘Zig-Zag Dispersal’ neckpiece and the ‘Spirit Level’ brooch.

Describing the importance of the acquisitions, Dr Frances Parton, Deputy Curator of the Goldsmiths’ Company Collection says: “The pieces, which have been acquired both through The Scottish Gallery in Edinburgh and direct from Dorothy herself, represent key moments in the maker’s life as an unparalleled craftswoman and a highly influential teacher of silversmithing and jewellery. The Company is now lucky enough to hold one of the largest and most significant collections of Hogg’s work in the UK.”

International significance

Through the advocacy of educator, collector and gallerist Helen W.Drutt English the Collection also welcomed new pieces from outstanding American makers: a silver cuff and a carafe by Marjorie Schick, and a sophisticated brooch from Eleanor Moty. The gifts further extend the international significance of the Collection and contribute towards its widening public appeal beyond the UK.

Dr Dora Thornton says that the Company plans to digitise its Collection which will open up access to these incredible treasures to a national and international audience: “The acquisitions report reveals how the Company’s pioneering support for contemporary makers continues to inspire artistry and excellence in precious metal as it moves towards its 700th anniversary in 2027. Our ambitious plans to digitise the Collection will soon make it freely available online to show the extraordinary range and quality of pieces brought together over many years.”