Pair of Tumbler Cups
SilversmithMade by
William Kirk
(Edinburgh, Scotland, 1933 - 2009)
Date1996
Object NameCup
Mediumsilver
ClassificationsApplied Art
DimensionsOverall (ABDAG011058.1): height 5.3 × diameter 7.5cm
Overall(ABDAG011058.2): height 5.4 × diameter 7.6cm
Overall(ABDAG011058.2): height 5.4 × diameter 7.6cm
AcquisitionPurchased in 1997 with assistance from the National Fund for Acquisitions.
Copyright© William Kirk (1996)
LocationOn Display - Gallery 06
Object numberABDAG011058
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'.
More About Me
Kirk’s work is characterised by strong simple forms. “I want my work to be used. I do not object to dents and scratches. The piece should collect its own history.”
Exhibitions
Alexander & John Smith Ltd.
1937
