De Lamerie, Paul (France/England), silversmith

Paul de Lamerie (1688-1751) was a highly skilled Huguenot silversmith, widely considered to be one of the greatest craftsmen of his time. He was born in the Netherlands in 1688, but his family fled to London in 1689 to escape persecution of Huguenots in France. His father was a watchmaker, and Paul began his training as an apprentice in his father's workshop.

At the age of 21, de Lamerie set up his own silversmithing workshop, where he produced some of the finest silverware of the 18th century. His work was highly sought after by the British aristocracy and European royalty. He was known for his exceptional technical skill, attention to detail, and ability to incorporate a range of decorative styles into his work, including Rococo, Baroque, and Neoclassical.

De Lamerie's creations included a wide range of objects, such as tea sets, candlesticks, salvers, tureens, and sauceboats, which more... were often decorated with intricate designs and chased or engraved patterns. He also produced large, ornate pieces, such as chandeliers and candelabra, which were highly prized for their beauty and technical skill.

In London, De Lamerie was a member of the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths and was appointed as a silversmith to King George II in 1720. He was also a mentor to many apprentices, several of whom went on to become renowned silversmiths in their own right.

De Lamerie died in 1751, but his legacy lives on as one of the greatest silversmiths of his era, whose work is still celebrated for its exceptional beauty and technical skill. less...