Silver

Silver and gold have been used in Scotland to make beautiful and valuable vessels and ornaments for thousands of years. However, it is not until the 16h century that the makers of individual objects can be identified, because of the marks that appear on them from this date. These hallmarks can indicate who made a piece, where and when. The first law enforcing hallmarking in Scotland dates to 1458; this publication and the stunning exhibition at the National Museums Scotland celebrates its anniversary by brining together, for the first time, a spectacular array of Scottish silver, from the earliest marked pieces right up to the present day.

Drawing from the Museum's incomparable collections, and from important public and private collections across the country and beyond, the development of the craft of the goldsmith throughout Scotland is charted. This book also explains why hallmarks helped prevent fraudulent craftsmen selling inferior metal, thus creating the oldest continuous form of consumer protection.

From antique Scottish silver considered the height of fashion in its time, to the stunning work of silversmiths working today, the vast range of talent and creativity that is inherent in Silver: Made in Scotland is demonstrated.