Silver Gilt Enamelled Casket
DesignerDesigned by
Richard G Hatton
(1865 - 1926)
Datec. 1902
Object NameCasket
Mediumsilver gilt and enamel
ClassificationsApplied Art
Dimensions21 × 25.5cm
AcquisitionPurchased in 1991 with assistance from the National Fund for Acquisitions, The National Art Collections Fund, the Friends of Aberdeen Art Gallery & Museums and income from the Sir John Black Trust.
LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub
Object numberABDAG008763
Keywords
Hexagonal lidded casket featuring six enamelled panels around sides illustrating the Man of Law's tale from Chaucer's Canterbury Tales; each panel is enamelled in colours of blue, green and gold and illustrates a scene relevant to the motto beneath each panel. There is a seated female figure in turquoise flowing gown on the apex of the cover. The casket is lined in silk velvet.
The casket illustrates two differing enamel techniques. The seated figure is covered in opaque enamel. The panels imitate cloisonné, where enamels are fired within raised metal outlines or cells.
The Company of Handicrafts was formed in 1899 and managed by Hatton, for students and crafts workers associated with the Art Department of Newcastle's Durham College of Science. It seems that the casket, was intended for Charles W. Mitchell, Chairman of the Art Committee. Mitchell died and the presentation did not take place. In 1910 it was given to Sir David and Lady Stewart of Aberdeen on the occasion of their Golden Wedding.
Thomas Ross & Sons
late 19th-early 20th Century
1859
late 19th-early 20th Century
c. 1870
