In England Renaissance spread in applied art later then in Continental Europe. English silversmiths were noticeably influenced by the craftsmen of Germany and Netherlands. The works of British Renaissance craftsmen are distinguished by the logical and symmetrical structure, clear shape, emphasized functional parts. English silver of that time looks rather simple and bourgeois. The plain shapes and even contours correspond to the British solidity and reserved decorativeness.

    The goblet 0f 1584 – 1585 made by Semeone Brooke is a characteristic work of English Renaissance silver. The “pumpkin” shape is borrowed from German craftsmen. The goblet is decorated with a thing engraved pattern. The other goblet with a deep, egg-shaped bowl, solid foot and characteristic bell-shaped bottom is typically insular. The Museum collection also comprises the wash-hand set. The jug is a high elegant vessel shaped like a vase. The upper part of the jug is decorated with a stripe of a chased ornament of oval medallions depicting sea monsters. The decoration of the matching dish-basin is austere and modest.

    The mug of 1670 with master’s monogram “AL” and large engraved ornament is referred to baroque style. Its floral decoration reflects a leading trend in English and European silver in the mid-17th century. The mug’s body is adorned with three large roundels . The central roundel depicts a double emblem. Architectural landscapes are engraved on the sides. The lower part is decorated with a floral pattern.

    All these items are magnificent works of English silversmiths. They give a vivid idea of peculiarities and quality of the world-famous artistic craft. The 16th – 17th British silver is characterized by natural harmony, absence of excessive decoration and generally high artistic level.