The Heritage of Hand Chasing
At British Silverware, we take pride in the belief that the finest objects bear the unmistakable "mark of the maker." While modern technology has its benefits, it cannot rival the depth of detail and essence that only a skilled artisan can achieve.
At the core of our craftsmanship is Hand Chasing, a traditional technique that defines our workshop and sets our pieces apart. Hand chasing is the soul of our workshop. It is the process of detailing and refining silver to create depth, pattern, and character that a machine simply cannot replicate.
Over 75 Years of Accumulated Mastery
Chasing is not a skill learned overnight; it is a discipline of patience, precision, and muscle memory. Our chasing department boasts over 75 years of combined experience, showcasing a legacy of craftsmanship that has been expertly passed down through generations of silversmiths.
In an age when many traditional crafts are diminishing, we are dedicated to preserving this expertise. Our chasers don't merely work with metal; they bring it to life, ensuring that every trophy, bowl, and centrepiece crafted in our Sheffield workshop becomes a stunning masterpiece of texture and form.
From Grand Trophies to Fine Tableware
Hand chasing is a dynamic art form that we skilfully apply to a wide range of products. Whether we’re creating prestigious sporting trophies, elegant hollowware, or intricate tableware, chasing is the technique that transforms a smooth silver surface into extraordinary art.
This technique empowers us to design bespoke decorations that encapsulate the unique story of each piece. When a client seeks a custom raised design, floral motif, or specific pattern, it is the steady hand of our chaser that brings that vision vividly to life in sharp, shimmering relief.
The Craft: Steel, Hammer, and Pitch
The technique of chasing is an exercise in controlled power. It is a slow, methodical process that requires an intimate understanding of how silver "moves."
Securing the Piece: We start by placing the silver into a chasing bowl filled with pitch. This specialised adhesive acts as a shock absorber, securely holding the metal in place while allowing for shaping without the risk of cracking or thinning.
The Punch and Hammer: Armed with a range of hand-forged steel punches and a weighted chasing hammer, our craftsmen strike the metal with purpose. Each blow is meticulously calculated for maximum effect.
Displacing the Metal: Unlike engraving, which removes material, chasing masterfully pushes and compresses the metal. This technique enables us to create stunning high-relief designs that are not only visually impressive but also remarkably durable and substantial to the touch.
The Secret to Realism: Texture and Fur
One of the most remarkable applications of hand chasing is in the creation of silver animals and figurative pieces. To convey the strength of a lion or the grace of a bird, artisans capture the essence of fur and feathers through detailed techniques.
By utilising shaped punches, craftsmen can replicate the soft texture of a spaniel’s coat or the rugged hide of a rhinoceros. This manual manipulation of metal creates a level of realism that casting alone cannot achieve.
A Legacy in Every Detail
When you commission a piece from British Silverware, you aren't just buying an object; you are commissioning decades of expertise. Our hand-chased details are a testament to our dedication to the "Old World" standards of quality, ensuring that every piece of silverware we produce remains a timeless heirloom for generations to come.
To learn more about our bespoke services or to view some of our hand-chased collections, visit www.britishsilverware.co.uk.
