Silver is an "element"—that is, a pure chemical substance which cannot be broken-down further into simpler components. And silver straddles a special place in the hierarchy of "metal preciousness." While it is not a "common" metal (like copper or brass or pewter or bronze), neither is it as precious as gold or platinum. To my eye (and my mind), items crafted of gold—no matter how beautiful—cannot escape their status as . . . well . . . gold. To me, their material composition often dictates their appraisal—visually and intellectually.
I truly love all those non-precious "craft" metals—the metals (or alloys) fashioned by artists to create decorative objects (by sculpting, hammering or casting). Their earthy honesty is raised to decorative status only by the skill of the artist's hands. Often, the artist will exploit the natural appearance of these basic metals to influence the aesthetics of the finished object. Yet, rarely does the value of the raw metal exceed the value of the artist's design and the craftsmanship employed to fashion it.
Silver, as I mentioned, straddles a special place between the precious and the non-precious metals. Strictly speaking, it is a valuable element. But the "silveriness" of the finished object rarely eclipses the skill of an accomplished artist's hand. In fact, silver's more-humble attitude doesn't distract us from recognizing the subtle signs of excellent handcraft.
This week we will be sharing a few of our favorite silver brooches. Each one is proudly silver—and yet—one can still appreciate the handsome handcraft of the piece's maker.
Shown here, a Victorian English Aesthetic Movement silver brooch, made in the 1880's. The silver disk is hand engraved with a central botanical roundel, framed by a radiant, correlate border. Click on the photo above to learn more about it.
More silver brooches tomorrow and in the days to come.
Though our Greenwich Village store is now permanently closed, LEO Design is still alive and well! Please visit our on-line store where we continue to sell Handsome Gifts (www.LEOdesignNYC.com).
To arrange a visit our Pittsburgh showroom (by private appointment only), please call 917-446-4248.