Notable English Female Silversmiths

During the 18th and 19th century, women in England did not have formal apprenticeships in silversmithing. Nevertheless they spent years learning the trade the same way men did, usually by working in the family. Women were only granted silversmithing marks from a Livery if they were a silversmith’s widow.

One of the most famous female silversmiths was Hester Bateman, as well as her daughter-in-law Ann. Other notable female silversmiths include Elizabeth Godfrey, Rebecca Eames, Elizabeth Eaton and Mary Chawner. All of these women not only continued the family business and provided security for their families, but accomplished notable achievements in their own right. Elizabeth Godfrey would secure the Duke of Cumberland as one of her patrons, whilst Hester Bateman’s legacy as one of England’s finest silversmiths continues to this day.