A collection of 18th and 19th century silver from Alexandria silversmiths has been given to the City of Alexandria from the Estate of Howard Worth Smith, Jr. The collection, which includes almost 600 pieces, will be catalogued and photographed over the summer.
An exhibition showcasing the full collection is planned for November 2004, at The Lyceum, Alexandria’s History Museum.
Howard Worth Smith, Jr., an Alexandria native and resident, was a collector and scholar of Alexandria-made silver for most of his life. His collection includes pieces made by Adam Lynn, John Pittman, Charles Burnett, John Adam, William Adam, William A. Williams, Mordecai Miller, John Gaither, Benjamin Barton, John Potter and James Galt.
Forms include tea sets, beakers, serving wares, ladles, and sugar tongs. An extensive collection of flatware also features the work of many lesser-known makers from the District of Columbia, and it includes forks as well as spoons.
“We are so appreciative of the Smith family’s generosity and thoughtfulness in placing this collection with The Lyceum,” said Jean Taylor Federico, Director of the Office of Historic Alexandria. “There are so many wonderful stories to be told through each piece — from the craftsmen who made them, the families who enjoyed them, and the man who collected, studied and preserved them.”
For more information, call 703-838-4554.