Although the discovery of Old Sheffield Plate, which is the combining of silver with copper, was accidental, it has had a great deal of importance in the history of manufacturing in England. The process derived its name from the city in which it was first produced, and its popularity was incredible. Because of the number of people hired as well as the amount of merchandise produced, it became one of the leading industrial centers of Great Britain.
The demand of silver far exceeded the supply especially with the rise of the merchant class in the eighteenth century. Thus, one can understand why Sheffield Plate was so well received. The pieces resembled solid silver and now were able to be duplicated in Old Sheffield Plate. Its lower cost thus enabled those of lesser income to enjoy luxuries for the first time.
The discovery of Sheffield Plating is accredited to Thomas Boulsover in the year 1742 while he was repairing the handle of a knife. Over the years, Old Sheffield Plate has become quite scarce and originals are eagerly sought after and, once gained, they are treasured with the respect due to them.
A handsome Old Sheffield circular Chamberstick that has a very elegant design with its thread edge border and a lovely crest. Chambersticks were introduced in the 17th Century and originally the purpose was used for lighting a bedroom. Therefore, large households had many sets of …
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Wine Coasters have been an integral part of the elegant dining table in England since the 18th century. At this time, coasters were also known as bottle sliders. A coaster serves various functions, and originally they were more functional than aesthetic. Wine Coasters were used …
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The use of Sterling Silver Candlesticks is documented back to the early Elizabethan (1558 – 1603) period. Tragically however, most of these Candlesticks were subsequently melted down or lost. Silver Plate Candlesticks were in high demand during the reign of Charles 11 (1660 – 1685). …
View Item >A handsome Old Sheffield Salver which is quite rare because of its oblong shape. Most salvers at this time were round shaped. This Old Sheffield Salver has a shaped gadroon border and there is a crest in the center of the piece. It is a …
View Item >During the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, the upper class became increasingly obsessed with the lifestyle and consumption of goods and wanted to display their taste as well as wealth. This idea of extravagance, as well as the addition of import and export duties created a …
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Contact Us >Once or twice a month we send an informative email to our subscribers about all things antiques. We love to answer questions and dive into the history of antique silver, porcelain, and glass. Read our email archive here.
Greetings from Wyler Antiques!
In today's Announcement, we are going to be discussing silver serving pieces. Over the years, we have enjoyed mixing silver and porcelain as they complement each other quite well. Examples of this idea are used throughout this Announcement.
