Elegant Plate: Three Centuries of Precious Metals in New York City

New York, NY: Museum of the City of New York, 2000. Hardbound. As New. Color illustrated paper-covered boards, with black cloth spines, in a black cloth slipcase. Vol. 1: 238 pp., profusely illustrated in bw with some color plates. Vol. 2: pp. 244-619, some color and profuse bw plates; set weighs 8.25 lbs. Profusely illustrated with detailed, scholarly analysis, this selective catalog of the 1400 object collection will bring this outstanding collection to prominence. Not limited to some of the earliest items made on this continent or 19th century Tiffany masterpieces, the collection includes pieces with documented New York histories -- from 17th century Dutch silver to outstanding examples by Gorham and other makers. This exciting new reference includes photographs of all unusual marks - the first time early New York marks have been studied and reproduced in over 35 years. Many new, unpublished and and previously misattributed marks are included. Also there is significant new information about makers and retailers in New York City from the early to mid 19th century. From the Publisher: Although precious metals have been part of the lives of New Yorkers since the city"s founding, until now comparatively little has been written about them. These two volumes examine the precious metals trades and usage of precious metals artifacts since the third quarter of the 17th century, through the excellent collection at the Museum of the City of New York that contains more than 1400 objects of silver and other precious metals, including hollowware, flatware, and jewelry made, sold, or owned in New York. (Spencer Marks).