400TH ANNIVERSARY EXHIBITION
A Captivating Exhibition Celebrating the 400th Anniversary of the Worshipful Company of Gold and Silver Wyre Drawers.
This hugely successful exhibition has now closed.
In 2023 the Company held an exhibition in the Guildhall Art Gallery to commemorate the grant of the first Royal Charter by James I in 1623. This brought together a wide range of objects important to the history of the Company and the use of gold and silver wire. Some of the objects were from the Company’s own collection, but many more were loaned by other institutions, including fellow Livery Companies. Following the official opening by our Patron, HRH the Duchess of Gloucester, on 28th September the doors opened to the public with over 9,000 visitors from across the world over the 13 week run.
The exhibition was designed to reflect not only the history of the trade and the Company, but also to highlight the livery movement’s current role in charitable giving.
Alongside historic examples of gold and silver wire work it aimed to showcase contemporary work by the Company’s Freemen in both jewelery and embroidery.
Technical aspects of wire work were included and practical demonstrations by current makers.
There were seven sections in the exhibition: the history of the company and the livery movement, the craft and technology of wire drawing, royal and civic regalia, military, ecclesiastical, the performing arts, and contemporary jewellery and embroidery. The objects included the only surviving part of a dress of Queen Elizabeth I (the Bacton alter cloth), Queen Mary’s coronation robe (shown in public for the last time due to its fragility) and Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation glove. The exhibition unveiled gold-braided military uniforms, magnificent ecclesiastical vestments, and civic ceremonial robes. A couple of ceremonial costumes were taken out of the exhibition to be worn during the coronation of King Charles III.
Treasures of Gold and Silver Wire Catalogue
A commemorative catalogue for the exhibition was published with both photographs of the exhibits and more information about the trade, the Company and their history. It can still be purchased via the Guildhall Art Gallery bookshop.
Impressions of the exhibtion
Unveiling Unparalleled Artistry
Prepare to be captivated by the unparalleled artistry showcased at this spectacular exhibition. Delight in the brilliance of gold and silver wiredrawing as you explore exceptional examples crafted over
centuries. Each piece tells a story, intricately woven with the lives and times of the individuals who cherished them.
From Regal Splendour to Ecclesiastical Grandeur
Witness the grandeur of gold embroidered royal regalia, including remarkable artifacts such as Queen Mary’s coronation robe from 1911 and Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation glove. As a rare treat, glimpse a fragment of the only surviving dress worn by the legendary Queen
Elizabeth I. The exhibition goes beyond regal treasures and unveils gold-braided military uniforms, magnificent ecclesiastical vestments, and civic ceremonial robes, many of which were worn during the coronation of King Charles III.
Celebrating the Arts
The exhibition transcends into the realm of arts, showcasing the court suit worn by the renowned Charles Dickens himself. Immerse yourself in the glamour of the theatre and ballet as you marvel at costumes worn by esteemed stars like Helen Mirren and David Tennant. Also the wedding garments worn by Clare Foy and Matt Smith as Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip in Netflix’s ‘The Crown’ To add an extra touch of intrigue, renowned milliner David Shilling has specially created a unique hat exclusively for this exhibition.
Supporters of the Exhibition
The staging of this important exhibition has been made possible by the wonderful generosity of our Exhibition Donors
