The Book of Old Silver - 9781620872116

The art of silversmithing dates back tocenturies ago, and its history is an interesting and intricate one, but evenOld Silver connoisseurs aren’t familiar with all of the customs, laws, regulations,and fashions of the past. First published in 1937, The Book of Old Silver thoroughlychronicles the fascinating history of the art of this precious metal, startingin England, which produced more fine silver than any other country and ignitedthe craft’s greatest flowering.  

Did you know the word “Sterling”originates from a band of immigrant Germans, the Easterlings, who were calledon by King John in 1300 to refine the metal to make English coins? Or that theEnglish government regulated the stamping of silver by law, and later punished themarking of inferior pieces with the sterling hallmark by death? Seymour B.Wyler follows the history of various types of silver pieces, including teaservices, drinking articles, condiment sets, tableware, lighting appliances,and furniture, and details the history of silver in various parts of the UnitedKingdom, America, and Europe.  

Along with the history and traditions,Wyler provides instructions on how to properly care for and clean Old Silver, detailshow to identify antique pieces, and provides tables and illustrations ofvarious silversmiths’ marks. Including photographs of antiques dating back tothe sixteenth century, this book is a must-have for every silver collector.