Image Not Available

Plain Hammered Bowl

SilversmithMade by William Kirk (Edinburgh, Scotland, 1933 - 2009)

Date1997

Object NameBowl

Mediumsilver

ClassificationsApplied Art

DimensionsOverall: Height: 9 cm, Diameter: 18.5 cm

AcquisitionPurchased in 1997 with assistance from the National Fund for Acquisitions.

LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub

Object numberABDAG011057

Keywords

About MeWilliam Kirk is acknowledged as one of Scotland's leading silversmiths. He is also a distinguished letter-cutter and engraver. Until his retirement he taught at Edinburgh College of Art, where he influenced a number of the younger generation of silversmiths. His work is characterised by strong simple forms with a clear unadorned line. Kirk's unembellished bowls, which retain their hammering and planishing marks illustrated his mastery of silver raising. In his hands a flat sheet of metal is hammered over a stake to create a beautiful and satisfying form.

Kirk sets himself a high standard, thinking through every aspect of the original concept before commencing work. He is quite prepared to remake or even reject a piece which is not good enough. Yet he comments: 'I want my work to be used. I do not object to dents and scratches. The piece should collect its own history'.