A spectacular exhibition of exquisite silverware made in 18th century England drawn from the American collection of Paul and Elissa Cahn, one of the finest private collections of silver in the world today, comes to Australia for the first time for an exclusive showing at the Powerhouse Museum from 18 April 2008.
Silver: Paul de Lamerie from the Cahn Collection celebrates the extraordinary work of London’s legendary 18th century silversmith Paul de Lamerie (1688-1751), whose workshop designed and produced some of the most innovative and visually striking silver ever crafted. The exhibition presents about 70 silver and silver-gilt objects marked by Paul de Lamerie and his eminent contemporaries including Paul Crespin and Charles Kändler.
Among the most celebrated objects in the exhibition are the 1736 Maynard Dish and the 1750 turtle tureen, which are featured alongside other stunning silverware designed in the 18th century Rococo style.
“This is a unique opportunity to see such a prestigious collection of silver masterpieces. Exhibitions of important historical silver are scarcely held in Australia, often due to the reluctance of owners to part with these rare and irreplaceable treasures. Intricately decorated, Rococo silver in particular can be easily damaged during prolonged periods of travel,” said Eva Czernis-Ryl, Curator of Decorative Arts and Design, Powerhouse Museum.
Magnificent tableware such as coffee pots, water jugs and wine coolers as well as silver objects used for writing and lighting including candelabra, will be displayed. Objects with flamboyant handles in the form of arching figures, zoomorphic spouts, naturalistic fruit finials and ‘dancing’ scroll feet will provide a visual feast for silver and fine art lovers alike.
While showcasing the impressive range of work from de Lamerie’s workshop, Silver will also offer an insight into the growing taste for luxury and fine craftsmanship in the 18th century. The popularity of coffee and tea gave rise to a range of specialised wares. Similarly, the introduction of new foods required new serving vessels.
The exhibition will also explore de Lamerie’s relationships with his clients from the top strata of Britain’s society, as well as his adventurous style and artistic invention.
An international symposium, Rococo silver in the 18th century: Paul de Lamerie and the Huguenots, will be held on Saturday 19 April at the Powerhouse Museum to celebrate the opening of Silver in Australia. Paul Cahn will make a special trip to Australia to personally show and talk about some silver pieces from his collection which only symposium-goers will see. Curators, authors and historians, including speakers from the USA and London’s V&A Museum, will take delegates on a wonderful journey through one of the greatest centuries in silver and fine art. Cost is $95 or $85.50 for early birds (bookings before 8 February 2008) which includes Museum admission, curator-led exhibition viewing, lunch and refreshments.
A two-day silver lace workshop led by a lace specialist will be held on the weekend of 3-4 May 2008 where participants will gain hands-on experience applying silver to contemporary lace works such as crochet, knitting and bobbin lace. Cost is $185 or $170 for Powerhouse Members which includes basic materials and Museum admission. -- www.powerhousemuseum.com
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