A Silversmith's Manual - Tapa dura

A Silversmith's Manual has been reprinted yet again in response to public demand. The author, Bernard Cuzner, was a leading authority on working in silver - not only as a craftsman, but also as a practised lecturer and teacher. In addition, the work includes a chapter with twenty-four designs by Anthony Elson DesRCA, one of the foremost designers of silverware. This is a practical, comprehensive guide that will appeal to anyone who works with silver, from student and specialist craftsmen, to designers, salesmen and collectors. Cuzner teaches the theory and application of silversmithing through a series of exercises. The creation of bowls, boxes, beakers and basins is covered, as are the decorative techniques of applied wire, chasing and piercing. Throughout the course of the book the student will come to understand the principles and problems of good design as well as the pros and cons of machine work. This is an important book which has been a source of inspiration to many generations of silversmiths. Packed with many modern designs of numerous styles, for all types of domestic silverware, no amateur or student silversmith should be without a copy.

Bernard Cuzner was one of the leading silversmiths of his generation. Born in 1877, he learnt his trade in Birmingham and was designing for Liberty's by around 1900. He was he was appointed head of the Metalwork Department at the Birmingham School of Art in 1910 and continued to work as a silversmith until his death in 1956.