Private Patterns
In the halcyon days of cutlery making in Sheffield, manufacturers owned different patterns which were created for them by blanking companies - these were known as ‘Private Patterns’. Over time, many of these historic, Private Patterns were used by trade and have since become generic. However, this is not the case for the Private Patterns owned by British Silverware. Many of the companies that make up British Silverware, such as James Dixon & Sons, CJ Vander and Roberts & Belk, had their own blanking facilities. This means that the Private Patterns have remained unique to British Silverware.
Florentine
This pattern is distinctive and balanced, beads are the decorative motif and are of ancient origin used by Egyptian and Roman craftsmen.
Pembury
The clean distinctive design is simple and elegant with soft lines at the apex; a contrast to its Art Deco predecessors.
Venetian
This pattern has a lightness and grace in structure. It is influenced by the intricate style of Byzantine and Moorish Gothic buildings in Venice with their ornate decoration and 'pointed arche'. Ideal for personalisation in the cartouche.
Plain Pine
A 21st century pattern with its root in traditional techniques of manufacture ensuring fine balance in the hand and elegance on the contemporary table.
Irish Bright Cut
The pointed end of this pattern distinguishes the Irish style and engraved star motif, and bright cut boarders make this pattern elegant. The back of the pattern is plain.
Louis XIV (14th)
A refined and graceful pattern but not over elaborate, this design is inspired by royal courts. The design is characterised by an elaborate heel pattern that demands great skill and special techniques to produce.
Louis XVI (16th)
French Elegance from the neo classical period. The surround is reed and ribbon ties.
Wellington
Introduced at the height of Queen Victoria's reign, this design is like no other coming from James Dixons & Sons' private collection of patterns and dies. Note the heel or pattern on the back of Wellington and other spoons and forks where the handle is 'set' into the bowl or prongs; this added quality requires additional processes.
Strathmore
Strikingly modern in appearance, the design is in fact an Art Deco original and proof of the timeless appeal of that era. When it was first made it was the pattern chosen by the world famous hotel The Savoy in London, England.
English Thread
Inspired by the French design the thread detail offers a contemporary variation to the old English pattern.
Louis Seize
This pattern with restrained elegance owes much to French design. The simple thread running around the edges has neat crossbands and runs into a curled acanthas leaf at the base of the handles.
Georgian
Designed for James Dixon and sons this pattern dates back to the 19th century, simple but elegant.
Mount Royal
Designed by Walter Belk this pattern has a graceful Art Nouveau motif.
Chesterfield
Acanthus leaves are the theme of this very English Pattern.
British Silverware have a bespoke service which can be applied to any of their private patterns.
Why Private Patterns?
Private patterns were created by companies to add to their range as a differential from other cutlery makers who had access to parish patterns. Often created to reflect the current trends in dining they give clients an option for a more unusual pattern to the widely available parish pattern.
