Elkington & Company: Revolutionizing the Art of Silversmithing

This entry sits within the Decorative and Applied Arts Encyclopedia, a master reference hub indexing design history, materials, movements, and practitioners.

The Origins of Elkington & Company

Founded in Birmingham, Warwickshire, England, Elkington & Company was a pioneering force in silversmithing from its inception in 1824 until its eventual decline in the late 20th century. George Richards Elkington (1801-1865) took control of a family-owned firm specializing in gilt articles, which later evolved into a leading manufacturer of silver and silver-plated items. The addition of George’s cousin, Henry Elkington (1810-1852), as a partner in the 1830s, marked the beginning of significant innovations in electroplating.

Basin 1852 (made) Elkington & Co an lectrotype impression of a pewter basin — Basin 1852 (made) Elkington & Co an electrotype impression of a pewter basin. V&A

Mastering Electroplating

During the early 19th century, the Elkingtons made groundbreaking strides in electroplating. This technique, which involves the electrical transfer of a coat of precious metal onto a base-metal object, revolutionized the industry. Although the concept of electroplating was not entirely new—stemming from the invention of the electric battery in 1800—it was George Richards Elkington who secured the first commercially viable patent for electroplating silver and gold in 1840. Under the direction of chief metallurgist Alexander Parkes, Elkington & Company further advanced the field by obtaining a patent for electrotyping in 1841. This method allowed for creating multiple facsimiles of an original object through electrical metal transfer into a mold.

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Impact on the Industry

The innovations spearheaded by Elkington & Company had far-reaching implications for British and American manufacturers. By acquiring patents for various electroplating methods, Elkington & Company dominated the industry in Britain until approximately 1875. The cost-effectiveness of electroplating rendered the labour-intensive Sheffield plate industry nearly obsolete within a decade. This accessibility enabled middle-class consumers to afford luxury items, thus democratizing high-quality decorative arts.

Influence on Decorative Arts

Elkington & Company’s influence extended beyond technological advancements to the realm of design. The company commissioned Danish designer Dr. Benjamin Schlick to create models of Greek and Roman plates, which they began reproducing as early as 1845. The London South Kensington Museum (now the Victoria and Albert Museum) authorized Elkington & Company to reproduce objects from its collections. These reproductions, praised for their educational value, popularized various historical decorative art styles.

Expansion and Artistic Contributions

After George Richards Elkington died in 1865, his sons led the company, with Frederick Elkington continuing to innovate and expand its offerings. Notable designers, including Emile Jeannest, Leonard Morel-Ladeuil, and Albert Willms, contributed to Elkington & Company’s success. Willms, in particular, became interested in Oriental art and helped the company experiment with Japanese forms and techniques during the 1870s. This period also saw collaborations with renowned designer Christopher Dresser, who began creating designs for Elkington & Company around 1884.

Hot Water Jug 1936-1937 (made) designed by Jean Puiforcat. V&A

The 20th Century and Beyond

In the 20th century, Elkington & Company’s focus shifted primarily to domestic silver plate production. The company continued to produce high-quality stampings in nonferrous alloys, serving industries such as brewing, mining, firefighting, and security. Despite changes in ownership and a move to Goscote Lane, Walsall, the legacy of Elkington & Company as a pioneer in silversmithing endures.

Conclusion

Elkington & Company’s contributions to the decorative arts are undeniable. Their mastery of electroplating and commitment to quality craftsmanship made luxury items accessible to a broader audience and left a lasting impact on the industry. The company’s ability to innovate and adapt to changing artistic trends ensured its place as a leader in the field for over a century.