SYDNEY-An international exhibition celebrating the work of the legendary 18th century silversmith, Paul de Lamerie (1688—1751), whose London workshop designed and produced some of the most innovative and visually striking silverware ever crafted, opened at the Powerhouse Museum.

Silver: Paul de Lamerie from the Cahn Collection is drawn from the American collection of Paul and Elissa Cahn, one of the finest private collections of 18th century British silver in the world today.

Highlights of the exhibition include the magnificent Maynard Dish and the Turtle Tureen shown here. These are displayed with almost 70 pieces designed mainly in the 18th century Rococo style, including elaborate sideboard dishes, candelabra, wine coolers and coffee pots. Objects with flamboyant handles, zoomorphic spouts, fruit finials and ‘dancing’ scroll feet will provide a visual feast for silver and fine art lovers alike.

Paul de Lamerie came to London as a baby with his Huguenot (French Protestants) parents who had escaped religious persecution. After serving a traditional apprenticeship and working as a journeyman, he set up his own business to eventually become London’s most celebrated silversmith and one of the first to explore the spirited Rococo style. Some examples of work by his contemporaries will also be displayed, including pieces by Paul Crespin and Charles Kändler.

As well as showcasing the impressive range of silverware from de Lamerie’s workshop, Silver also offers an insight into the growing taste for luxury and fine craftsmanship in 18th century London. The fashion for French cuisine led to an increased demand for stylish vessels inspired by French designs, as did the popularity of tea and coffee drinking. The influence of skilled French artisans played a major role in this growing luxury market.

The exhibition also looks at the significance of the silversmith’s mark and de Lamerie’s role as both an artist and a highly successful entrepreneur in the development of a tradition of fine English silverware.