With Hallmarks for Omar Ramsden, London 1939, also engraved "OMAR RAMSDEN ME FECIT"

Provenance
Acquired by George Howard Williams (1893-1975) directly from Omar Ramsden at the time of production. By family repute, it was originally commissioned from Ramsden by the Williams family as a presentation trophy for the YMCA Sporting Association. Williams was closely connected with the Young Men's Christian Association, as his Grandfather Sir George Williams (1821-1905) had founded the association on the 6th of June, 1844. However, this ... Read More

With Hallmarks for Omar Ramsden, London 1939, also engraved "OMAR RAMSDEN ME FECIT"

Provenance
Acquired by George Howard Williams (1893-1975) directly from Omar Ramsden at the time of production. By family repute, it was originally commissioned from Ramsden by the Williams family as a presentation trophy for the YMCA Sporting Association. Williams was closely connected with the Young Men's Christian Association, as his Grandfather Sir George Williams (1821-1905) had founded the association on the 6th of June, 1844. However, this

trophy was never presented, as war broke out in 1939 and the family thought it was inappropriate to present it at such a difficult time.
Henceforth kept within the family.

OMAR RAMSDEN (1873-1939)
Omar Ramsden was one of the most successful silversmiths of his generation, producing high quality silver distinguishable by his commitment to craftsmanship, innovative design, and his role in the British Arts and Crafts movement. Coming from Sheffield, a city with a rich history in metalwork, Omar Ramsden was well placed to develop his skills in silversmithing. In 1898, Ramsden established a partnership with Alwyn Carr (1872-1940), another like-minded silversmith, and together they founded the firm Ramsden and Carr based in London.

The Arts and Crafts movement in Britain was born out of an increasing understanding that society needed to adopt a different set of priorities in relation to the manufacture of objects. Artistic creatives such as Ramsden wanted to develop products that not only had more integrity, but were also made in a less dehumanising way. He therefore championed handcrafted goods over mass-produced items, believing in the inherent artistic expression of the craftsman, and the intrinsic value of simplicity, utility and beauty. Known for his inventive designs, he often drew inspiration from medieval, Celtic, and Norse art. He was adept at combining various materials and techniques to create pieces that were both beautiful and functional. Many of his pieces feature hand-hammered surfaces, which became his signature technique.

Ramsden and Carr therefore maintained a workshop that was aligned with the ideals of the Arts and Crafts movement, employing skilled craftsmen, ensuring fair working conditions, and fostering a collaborative environment. Even after his partnership with Alwyn Carr ended in 1919, Ramsden's success continued to grow while still maintaining these ideals. His innate business sense and ability to develop such an appealing house style, led his workshop to be remarkably productive, producing a variety of silver items including jewellery, tableware, ecclesiastical pieces, and decorative objects.

Ramsden's work therefore is instantly recognisable by its high quality workmanship, attention to detail, and unique design. Pieces created by Ramsden bear his hallmark, and often include the inscription 'Omar Ramsden Me Fecit' (Omar Ramsden Made Me). During his lifetime, Ramsden's work was exhibited widely, garnering national and international acclaim, and winning various prestigious awards. His silver career was marked by his dedication to his craft, his innovative approach and his influential role in the Arts and Crafts movement. This commitment to quality and artistic expression, set a high standard for future generations of craftsmen.