Delve into the exquisite world of European silver with this comprehensive catalogue raisonné, the first in over a century to detail the Royal Collection's remarkable pre-twentieth-century silver treasures. Home to one of the finest collections globally, this volume showcases over 350 stunning objects from renowned silver-producing countries such as France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Russia, along with select pieces from Italy, Scandinavia, Portugal, and the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

The introductory essay offers a fascinating exploration of the Royal Family's 300-year history of European silver collecting, highlighting significant gifts exchanged among royal families in the nineteenth century. The catalogue also features extraordinary items, including magnificent pieces presented to Charles II upon the Restoration of the English monarchy, opulent German Kunstkammer objects acquired by George IV, and unique historical curiosities collected by Queen Mary.

From dining and drinking wares to tea, coffee, and chocolate services, toilet sets, desk accessories, and church plate, this catalogue covers a diverse array of spectacular silver objects. Each piece is brought to life through more than 1,000 vibrant colour images that capture intricate details, decorative motifs, and hallmark marks, supplemented by an appendix of coats of arms, crests, and ciphers.

Written by esteemed scholar Kathryn Jones, this catalogue is an essential resource for art historians, collectors, and anyone captivated by the elegance and craftsmanship of European silver.

Hardback.

512 pages.

30 x 24.5 cm.

ISBN 978 1 909741 37 9