Books about silver

Welcome to our specialized library of books about silver. On this page, you will find a carefully selected range of reference works, catalogues, and specialist literature. Whether you want to trace the origin of an antique silver bracelet or decipher the silver hallmarks on an 18th-century bible, these books offer the essential knowledge every enthusiast and collector needs.
The History of Silver Literature
The documentation of silverwork has a rich history. In earlier times, the secrets of the silversmith remained strictly within the guild halls. However, from the 19th and 20th centuries, there arose a great need to systematically record historical city marks, maker's marks, and fineness stamps. Pioneers in art history published thick reference works that are still considered the 'bible' for silver collectors today. These books not only describe the evolution of styles such as Rococo and Art Deco but also offer a fascinating glimpse into the craft's past.
What should you pay attention to when purchasing?
  • Area of Focus: Choose a book that aligns with your specific interest, such as books purely focused on Dutch silver hallmarks, or on European church silver.
  • Hallmark Registers: Ensure the book contains clear, detailed images or drawings of stamps for accurate identification.
  • Currency: While old catalogues are historically interesting, modern reprints often provide corrected and more complete information about silversmiths.