Document Type

Journal Article

Publisher

Foundry Journal Agency

School

School of Enterprise and Technology

Comments

Audy, J., & Evin, E. (2010). An analysis of silver candlesticks from a casting point of view: originals, copies, forgeries. China Foundry (English) 1, 015. Available here

Abstract

Collecting silver artefacts has traditionally been a very popular hobby. Silver is addictive, therefore the number of potential collectors and investors appears to grow each year. Unfortunately, increases in the interest and buying potentials resulted in a number of forgeries manufactured and introduced to the open antique market. The items such as early silver candlesticks dictate a very high price, for many high quality fakes show very good appearances and matching similarities with originals. Such copies are traditionally manufactured by casting using the original items as patterns. Small details and variances in design features, position and shape of hallmarks, including the final surface quality are usual features to distinguish the fakes from the originals. This paper presents results of a study conducted on several silver candlesticks, including two artefacts bearing features of those produced in the mid18th century, one original Italian candelabrum from Fascist era, and small candlesticks made in the early 20th century. Also, the paper presents some interesting contemporary coins – replicas of many those produced in different countries. The coins were offered for sale by unscrupulous dealers via auctions and e-bays. Finally the main results and findings from this study are discussed from a manufacturing point of view, such as fabrication technology, surface quality and hallmarks, which will help the collectors, dealers and investors to detect and avoid forgeries.

Access Rights

free_to_read

Included in

Metallurgy Commons

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