Silver

The Silver Department of Gregory’s Auction House is dedicated to the selection, study and enhancement of a category that represents one of the finest expressions of European decorative arts. Here, technical mastery, intrinsic value and decorative function come together in objects of remarkable charm and collecting significance.

The department’s activity is distinguished by a rigorous and multidisciplinary approach, accompanying each piece through every stage of the process: from consignment and valuation to its presentation and sale at auction. Every object undergoes careful analysis, including the study of hallmarks and maker’s marks, which are essential for verifying authenticity, provenance, dating and quality, together with the evaluation of manufacturing techniques – from repoussé and chasing to engraving and casting – and its state of preservation, all fundamental elements in determining its historical and collectible value. The Auction House also agrees upon a reserve price with the consignor, based on the characteristics of the object and current market conditions, with the aim of safeguarding its value.

Alongside technical analysis, the department maintains a constant dialogue with the market, collectors, enthusiasts and consignors. It provides professional valuations that reflect the dynamics of both the national and international collecting markets. In a sector that continues to evolve, silverware remains highly sought after, with rarity, craftsmanship, provenance and the reputation of individual workshops playing a decisive role in determining value.

Gregory’s Auction House continues to assist clients after the sale, offering support with all post-auction procedures, including documentation management, shipping quotations, transport arrangements and export formalities. Through collaboration with a network of specialised carriers, worldwide shipping can be arranged. In this way, the Silver Department provides buyers and consignors with comprehensive and structured support at every stage.

The department offers a wide variety of antique and modern silver, ranging from the Middle Ages to the twentieth century. Gregory’s catalogues feature important examples of Italian, Russian and English silverware, domestic and ecclesiastical objects, as well as rare and valuable silver pieces from private collections. In the field of sacred art, the department specialises in icons with silver riza, as well as chalices, monstrances, reliquaries and crucifixes. For domestic silverware, the selection includes large flatware services, candelabra, trays, tea and coffee services, together with decorative works of exceptional quality.

A distinctive feature of many of these objects is the richness of their decoration, capable of giving each piece elegance, ornamental strength and collectible appeal. One of the department’s greatest strengths is the high quality of the silverware offered, often bearing the signatures of renowned makers such as Stefani, the historic silversmith of Bologna.

Among the department’s top lots are outstanding monumental and decorative silver objects, including the large Austro-Hungarian silver centrepiece, sold for €28,520, and the important Fabergé silver epergne, also sold for €28,520, together with the pair of silver baluster vases, which achieved €26,400. These works exemplify the technical excellence and visual impact that characterise the department’s finest results.

A central role is also played by twentieth-century decorative and table silver, represented by highlights such as the silver and lapis lazuli table by Fiorentini, sold for €10,200. Other notable results include the set of twelve silver chargers (€6,820), the Fiorentini silver service (€5,704), the Wolfers Frères tea and coffee service (€5,704) and a large silver tureen (€4,200). These results confirm the market’s strong appreciation for works that combine functionality, elegance and fine craftsmanship.

Particularly significant is the presence of works by contemporary Italian silversmiths, among whom Stefani stands out, with results such as the “Filla” silver carafe, sold for €4,960, the pair of silver high-reliefs (€4,080) and the Immaculate Madonna (€3,250), demonstrating both the continuity of the Italian silversmithing tradition and its relevance in today’s market.

Alongside these, excellent results have also been achieved by European collectible and domestic silverware, including the Laparra & Gabriel flatware service (€5,500), the Fornezza chargers, the Ricci flatware service and the Elkington decorative tray, as well as more ornamental works such as the silver sculpture “Armoured Knight”.

Overall, these results confirm the department’s strength and its ability to enhance a wide range of silverware categories within a dynamic, selective and constantly evolving market. The department’s acquisition activity, developed over time through collectors, private collections and enthusiasts, has enabled Gregory’s to build a national and international client base, offering consignors broad and qualified visibility. In this context, the participation of an increasingly global audience contributes to creating natural competition at auction and to achieving significant results.

Evaluation

Would you like to know the value of your artworks and explore their potential sale on the market?

Our experts are available to provide free and confidential valuations, whether for individual works or entire collections.

You will receive qualified advice and be guided through every stage of the sale process, whether at auction or through private negotiation, with a careful and personalised service.

Images and information regarding your artworks can be sent via:

• email or WeTransfer: aste@gregorysaste.it
• WhatsApp: +39 051 2960945

Auction Catalogues

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