Keyhole Pattern. The keyhole pattern was a popular design during the 18th century and was often used in silverware. The pattern’s name comes from the shape of the aperture at the terminal, which resembles a keyhole. A style of pierced pattern can be seen on the flat, horizontal handle of some porringers. It typically consists of four to ten additional holes, with the terminal hole resembling a keyhole.
Around 1730, it replaced the so-called “geometric pattern,” which featured apertures of different shapes, some of which were open on the sides. A pattern of pierced work is found on the flat horizontal handle of some porringers, having at the terminal an aperture suggestive of the form of a keyhole with, usually, four to ten other apertures. It superseded c. 1730, the so-called ‘geometric pattern’, which included apertures of various shapes, some open at the sides.
Textiles and Ceramics
It was a popular design during the 18th century when ornate and intricate patterns were in vogue. The pattern was created by repeating a series of interlocking shapes that formed a continuous design. This pattern was particularly popular in England and France and used to decorate everything from furniture to clothing.
Today, the keyhole pattern remains a classic design that has stood the test of time. It continues to be used in modern designs, albeit with some modifications to suit contemporary tastes. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless beauty and versatility as a design element.
Sources
Newman, H. (2000). An illustrated dictionary of silverware: 2,373 entries relating to British and North American wares, decorative techniques and styles, and leading designers and makers, principally from c.1500 to the present. Thames & Hudson.
Additional Reading – Silverware
Dolan, M. (1993). 1830s-1990’s American Sterling Silver Flatware: A Collector’s Identification & Value Guide. United States: Books Americana. https://amzn.to/3mYhbWW
Haslam, M., & Haslam, M. (1995). Marks & Monograms: The Decorative Arts, 1880-1960. Collins & Brown.
Helliwell, S. (1988). Collecting Small Silverware. United Kingdom: Phaidon-Christie’s. https://amzn.to/3TnVSdA
Krekel-Aalberse, A. (1989). Art Nouveau and Art Deco silver. Abrams.
Langford, J. (1998). Silver: A Practical Guide to Collecting Silverware and Identifying Hallmarks. Australia: Sandstone Books. https://amzn.to/3LytDqD
Newman, H. (1987). An illustrated dictionary of silverware: 2,373 entries relating to British and North American wares, decorative techniques and styles, and leading designers and makers, principally from c.1500 to the present. United Kingdom: Thames and Hudson. https://amzn.to/40jlY3p
Rainwater, D. T., Fuller, M., & Fuller, C. (2004). Encyclopedia of American Silver Manufacturers. Schiffer Pub.
Rinker, H. L. (1997). Silverware of the 20th Century: The Top 250 Patterns. United States: House of Collectibles. https://amzn.to/3JLVUsu
More Posts on Silversmiths
The Lacock Cup: A Testament to Medieval Silver Craftsmanship
The Lacock Cup, a medieval silver standing cup, transitioned from secular feasting to a sacred chalice during the English Reformation, exemplifying cultural…
Keep readingThe Legacy of Richard Yorke Gleadowe – A Silver Lining in Applied Arts
Richard Yorke Gleadowe, a prominent British silver designer, integrated traditional craftsmanship with modernist influences, leaving a lasting impact on decorative arts.
Keep readingAlwyn Carr: The Lustrous Journey of a British Silversmith and Enamelist
Alwyn Carr, a prominent British silversmith, is celebrated for his Arts and Crafts movement influence and collaboration with Omar Ramsden, yielding enduring…
Keep readingPeter Hertz Oldest Silver Factory in Denmark
The Peter Hertz Silver Factory is celebrated for its exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail, showcasing Danish commitment to quality and timeless…
Keep readingGundorph Albertus: Danish Silversmith and Designer Extraordinaire
Gundorph Albertus, a renowned Danish silversmith, is celebrated for his iconic Cactus and Mitra flatware patterns, which continue to captivate enthusiasts and…
Keep readingFred G. Minuth (1884 – 1966) American Silversmith
Fred G. Minuth, an American silversmith, co-established the Frank S. Boyden Co, later the Boyden-Minuth Co, in Chicago in 1903. The company,…
Keep readingFlemming Eskildsen (b.1930) Danish designer and Silversmith
Flemming Eskildsen, a renowned silversmith born in 1936, made significant contributions to Georg Jensen and Royal Copenhagen, showcasing versatility and visionary leadership.
Keep readingThe Legacy of Erna Zarges-Dürr, German Silversmith
Erna Zarges-Dürr, a renowned German silversmith, crafted meticulously proportioned silver pieces with modern ornamentation. She received recognition at international exhibitions.
Keep readingTeapot with warmer by Christopher Dresser
Christopher Dresser, a pioneer of modern industrial design, was influenced by Japanese art, integrating minimalist and functional elements into his mass-produced designs.
Keep readingJohan Rohde (1856 – 1935) Danish Architect & Designer
Johan Gudmann Rohde (1856 – 1935) was a prominent Danish painter, lithographer, and designer, known for influential designs in silverware and jewelry.…
Keep readingBernard Instone: Master Silversmith and Enameller (1891-1987)
British silversmith Bernard Instone, born in 1891, revolutionized jewelry design with his enameled silver work, blending traditional techniques with individual creativity. His…
Keep readingWiwen Nilsson (1897 – 1974) Swedish Silver Designer
Swedish Silver Designer Wiwen Nilsson (1897-1974), known for simplicity and elegance in his work, made notable contributions to art and design. He…
Keep readingA Brief Overview of Carl Cristian Fjeringstad: Life and Legacy
Carl Christian Fjerdingstad was a Norwegian designer born in Kristiansand and active in Blaricum (Norway), the Netherlands, and Paris. Carl Christian Fjerdingstad…
Keep readingJ.M van Kempen Dutch Silversmith
J.M. van Kempen started a silver factory in Utrecht in 1835, later moving to Voorschoten. The company expanded into sculptural work and…
Keep readingBertel Gardberg (1916 – 2007) Finnish Jeweller and Metalworker
Bertel Gardberg was a Finnish jeweller and metal worker. Between 1938-1941 he studied at Taideteollin Korkeaukoulu, Helsinki. He began his working life…
Keep readingJulius Olaf Randahl (1880 – 1972) Swedish Silversmith
Julius Olaf Randahl, a Swedish silversmith, created exquisite silver pieces inspired by nature. His work can be found in museums worldwide.
Keep readingMarius Hammer (1847 – 1927) Norwegian Silversmith
Marius Hammer (1847 – 1927) was a prominent Norwegian silversmith known for his plique-a-jour enamelled spoons, popular with tourists and exported internationally.…
Keep readingHarry Bertoia (1915 – 1978) Italian Sculptor, Furniture Designer
Harry Bertoia was a sculptor, printmaker, jeweller, and furniture designer. He was born in San Lorenzo, Udine, and worked in the United…
Keep readingBorje Rajalin (b.1933) Finnish Jewellery Designer
Borje Rajalin, a Finnish Jewellery Designer, is known for his simple forms, gemstone usage, and award-winning silver designs. He worked with renowned…
Keep readingGeorg Arthur Jensen Silverware Designer and Manufacturer
Georg Jensen was a Danish metalworker. He was born in Faavad. He was apprenticed as a goldsmith. cl895-1901, he studied sculpture, Det…
Keep readingAlma Eikerman (1908 – 1995) American Jewellery Designer and Silversmith
Alma Eikerman (1908 – 1995) was an American jewellery designer and silversmith. Eikerman was born in Pratt, Kansas, and graduated from Kansas…
Keep readingChristian Dell (1893 – 1974) German Metalworker Designer
Christian Dell, a German silversmith and Bauhaus metal workshop foreman, pursued industrial design and returned to silversmithing, leaving a legacy of modern…
Keep readingFranz Rickert (1904-1991) German Silversmith
Franz Rickert (1904-1991), a German Silversmith, apprenticed in Mayrhofer’s workshop, studied in Munich, and became a prominent silversmith and enameler, exhibiting in…
Keep readingHarold Stabler (1872 – 1945) British Ceramicist, Enameller, Jeweller and Silversmith
Harold Stabler’s lengthy, illustrious career began in the Arts and Crafts movement and extended into the modernist era. Over the 50 years…
Keep readingEmmy Roth (1885 – 1942) German / Israeli Silversmith
Emmy Roth (1885 – 1942), a German Jewish silversmith, created innovative metalwork influenced by Baroque and modern design, gaining international recognition.
Keep readingGunilla Jung (d. 1939) Finnish Silversmith and Lighting Designer
Gunilla Jung was a glass and lighting artist and Silversmith. She designed glassware for Karhula (later Iittala) in the 1930s at the…
Keep readingArne Jacobsen (1902 – 1971) Danish Architect and Furniture Designer
Arne Jacobsen, a Danish designer, pioneered Functionalism. His notable works include the iconic Swan seats, Ant chair, and Cylinda Line tableware.
Keep readingCarlo Guiliano (1831 – 1895) Italian Goldsmith and Jeweller
Italian jeweller Carlo Giuliano, is revered for his artistic innovation and eminence in late 19th-century fine jewellery. Known for his archaeological style…
Keep readingJean Puiforcat (1897 – 1945) French Art Deco Silversmith
His silver work was based on the geometric series and had smooth surfaces. Pieces were embellished with ivory, onyx, lapis lazuli, and…
Keep readingErik Magnussen (1884 – 1961) Danish Silversmith and Designer
Erik Magnussen was a renowned Danish silversmith and designer, known for his Art Deco and Cubist inspired designs. He operated various workshops…
Keep readingLino Sabattani (1925 – 2016) Italian Metal Smith
Sabbatini worked as a silversmith from a very early age. He learned metalworking techniques and became interested in shapes derived from natural…
Keep readingRobert Welch (1929 – 2000) English designer and silversmith
He studied painting at the Malvern School of Art under Victor Moody from 1946 to 1947 and 1949 to 1950. Silversmithing at…
Keep readingTorolf Prytz (1858 – 1938) Norwegian Architect & Designer
He began working with goldsmith Oluf Tostrup, the son of goldsmith Jacob Tostrup and co-owner of J. Tostrup. When Oluf Tostrup died…
Keep readingCarl-Gustaf Jahnsson (1935 – 1994), Swedish Silversmith and Designer
Carl-Gustaf Jahnsson (1935 – 1994) was a renowned Swedish silversmith, designer, and industrial designer, known for his innovative church silver designs and…
Keep readingOmar Ramsden (1873 – 1939) British Silver Designer
He was a leading silverware designer and manufacturer in England. He lived on Fir Street in Walkley, Sheffield, Yorkshire but worked in…
Keep readingFrantz Hingelberg Danish Silversmiths
Frantz Hingelberg Silversmiths, based in Arhus, Denmark, is a renowned name in silver and gold craftsmanship, known for innovation, quality, and global…
Keep reading