Stunning silverware
HAUTE silversmith Comyns has reached into its centuries-deep archive to revive a classic: the Rose Bowl collection, comprising two elegant lidded bowls on a tray.
An original design from its archive of drawings, moulds, sketches, and tools that covers British silversmithing dating back to the 17th century, the collection was made using some of the oldest silver decorating techniques.
The body of the hand-spun bowl is supported on a flared base and comes with an ornate lid. The scrollwork rose motifs on the lid and the fluted foot of the bowl were produced using the fineart metalworking techniques chasing and repoussé.
Chasing works the metal from the front to define, refine, and texturise the motifs; this is done by hammering with various handmade tools to raise, depress, and “push” aside the silver surface without removing any of the metal. Repoussé involves hammering from the reverse side to create a relief.
Detailing is emphasised by “hand-piercing” to create ajoure, a pierced open-work pattern; the intricate detailing of the lid is further embellished with a 24k gold-gilt layer underneath the pierced surface, adding contrast with a play of colours.
The collection comes with the traditional four hallmarks of Comyns quality: The William Comyns marque, the purity of silver content mark, the assay office mark, and the “date letter” or year of assay.
The Rose Bowl collection is priced at RM24,900 and is currently available for viewing and pre-order at Comyns Pavilion Kuala Lumpur; it will be in the following stores in July: Comyns outlets at Suria KLCC and Bangsar Shopping Centre, the Royal Selangor Visitor Centre, and selected Royal Selangor stores.