Peter Archambo I facts for kids
Peter Archambo I (born 1699, died 1759) was a very skilled Huguenot silver and goldsmith. He was born in England, but his family, the Archambaults, were Huguenot refugees from France. In 1710, when he was just 11 years old, he began learning his trade from another famous Huguenot goldsmith named Jacob Margas.
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Who Were the Huguenot Goldsmiths?
Many sons of Huguenot families, like Peter Archambo, learned their craft from masters who also came from France. This helped them learn special skills and design ideas that their masters brought with them. Huguenot silver is known for being very well-made and having beautiful designs. These designs often included detailed patterns, cut-out shapes, and fancy decorations with lots of engraving.
Introducing the Rococo Style
Peter Archambo's work showed a strong French influence. He is known for helping to bring the Rococo style to England. The Rococo style was popular from about 1725 to 1765. It's a very decorative and playful style, often featuring curves, natural shapes, and light colors.
Archambo's Career and Creations
After ten years of learning from Jacob Margas, Peter Archambo became a "Freeman" of the Butchers' Company in 1720. This meant he could work independently. He registered his special mark (like a signature for his work) in London in 1721. He made many beautiful silver items for homes, such as cups, candlesticks, cream jugs, and cake baskets. His pieces often featured designs inspired by the ocean, like shells and figures of Neptune, the god of the sea.
Famous Works by Archambo
One of his amazing creations from 1731 is a hot water kettle. It has a round body and a finely engraved family crest. This kettle is now part of a collection in East Melbourne, Australia. It's decorated with shells and Neptune, showing how elegant and important it would have been for entertaining guests.
Other famous pieces by Archambo can be found in well-known collections:
- At Dunham Massey Hall in Cheshire, England, there is a magnificent wine urn and a matching wine cistern. These were ordered by George Booth, 2nd Earl of Warrington.
- The Gilbert Collection, now at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, has a hot-water urn and a set of three beautiful caddies (small boxes) with detailed engravings.
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City has a pair of plain ewers (jugs) from 1740 and a pair of sauce boats from 1733–1734.
Archambo's Influence on Other Goldsmiths
Peter Archambo also taught other young goldsmiths. One of his apprentices was Thomas Heming, who learned from Archambo from 1735 to 1745. Heming's work also showed a clear French style, influenced by his teacher. Thomas Heming became a very important goldsmith himself. From 1760 to 1782, he was even appointed the Principal Goldsmith to King George III. He created many large and important silver pieces, including items for the King's coronation in 1761.
