Regency Silver

Unlike rococo, the term Regency refers to a period rather than a style. In fact the silver made during the first quarter of the nineteenth century is splendidly diverse. Much of it was startlingly new, using the motifs of classical decoration in revolutionary ways, while many pieces revived renaissance, mannerist and especially rococo decoration but with an entirely fresh twist. Strictly speaking the Regency lasted from 1811 to the death of George III in 1820. Yet one can detect a distinct period commencing at the end of 1790s and extending to the late 1820s. When the masterpieces of the Regency period shown here were made, there were innovative both in style and technique. They still have the power to delight and amaze us with their imagination and superb craftsmanship.