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Home > British Silver Renaissance And Reformation
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British Silver - Renaissance and Reformation by Rex Reservoir
The Renaissance and Reformation covers the years 1525 - 1603. Henry VIII was king, starting in 1509. This was a period of religious turmoil. The period continues through until the death of Queen Elizabeth I in 1603.
The Renaissance started in northern Italy around 1397 and slowly spread across Europe. The fall of the Byzantine empire in 1453 led to many scholars migrating to Italy bringing with them many old manuscripts. An interest in these and the classical architecture of ancient Greece and Rome gathered force and by the 16th century the Renaissance was at its height. The influence on the design of English silver cannot be distinctly separated from Gothic until about 1526.
The new ideas of the Renaissance led to challenges to the teachings and authority of the Roman Catholic Church. The way the leaders of the Church ran its affairs was strongly criticized. People felt the Church needed to be reformed, hence the Reformation. It began in earnest in Germany in 1517 led by Martin Luther, his followers know as Lutherans. After 1529 they were renamed to Protestants when they protested against attempts to limit their teachings.
During the reign of Henry VIII the price of silver and gold fell. European mines were producing in greater quantities than previously and gold from Spanish America was available.
A large amount of silver and gold work was commissioned during this period, much of it for gifts to other foreign monarchs, ministers, advisers and courtiers.
In spite of this most of the knowledge about silver goods from this period is taken from catalogues and inventories. Economic pressure, changes in fashion and the turmoil of the Reformation saw much of the silverware of the day destroyed and melted down for reuse.
The purity of the metals also became debased and this led to the introduction of the Lion Passant mark that indicated the quality of silver to be that of 92.5%, this becoming known as the Sterling Mark.
The repousse method of raising small and intricate designs on thin plate was introduced. The sides, cover and feet of various vessels were embossed with fruit and foliage and medallions with the heads of classical warriors were introduced.
Cups, bowls, mazers, two handed cups, wine cups, tankards and beakers have survived and can be found in various collections.
Ewers and basins were popular during this period, being placed on the table for diners to wash their hands during the meal. Forks had not yet been introduced in England and eating was a messy affair.
Spoons from this period had a flatter and wider stem. Salts can be found and were popular items.
Many items from this period are highly decorated with engravings and embossing, with cast figures added for decoration.
About the Author
Rex Reservoir - interests include diving, silver, firearms amongst others. Visit http://vpsware.co.nz/
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