MASTERS OF METAL: Early Suffolk County Silversmiths
Recently Mark and I visited the Suffolk County Historical Society Museum in Riverhead, New York. “Masters of Metal” is among the exhibitions there. The intimate display case exhibit presents a notable collection of fine handcrafted silver pieces forged by 18th century silversmiths working in Suffolk County, New York. I was thrilled to have the opportunity to see this display before it closes this January 2024. The history of fine silversmiths in Suffolk County, NY is extensive and one to be proud of.
The Suffolk County Historical Society secured a significant acquisition of over 100 pieces of silver crafted by Suffolk’s earliest know silversmiths. The pieces from this acquisition are being shown for the first time ever. Works include pieces by artisans from the Sayre family, E. Pelletreau, B. Coleman and Col. D Hedges. These fine handcrafted pieces glisten in the display case. ( F.Y.I. , E. Peletreau’s workshop still exists on Main Street, Southampton, NY.)
Masters of Metal closes at the end of this January 2024. Check for times and days the museum is opened if you plan to visit.
An elegant piece by Joel Saye on display at SCHSM. Note the exquisite high polished finish. See the image below for the hammer marks on the inside of this hollowware piece.
A view of the underside of Sayers piece above reveals the hammer marks that are evidence of how this hollowware piece was created.