An Arts and Crafts copper charger made circa 1900.

This particular charger highlights the popularity of metalworking as a handicraft when the Arts and Crafts Movement was at its peak. The exact design was illustrated in The House magazine in 1900 (No.39 P.102) and was part of a regular feature where designs were provided for amateurs to produce. The designs were produced by designers and makers of the day and, although the pseudonym of “Repousse” was always used, I am pretty sure that at least one of the Williams sisters, Mary or Annie, provided some designs and others may have come from James Smithies. 

The charger itself is extremely well made and matches the design perfectly. Hard to imagine it was made by an enthusiastic amateur. I love a piece of metalwork with a story to tell and this one both looks great and has a fascinating story behind it.