Stuart Devlin - The Midas Maker
Born in Geelong, Australia, Stuart Devlin (1931-2018) was an artist and metalworker specialising in gold and silver. He became especially well-known as a London-based designer of collectors' items in the 1970s and 1980s.
Stuart Devlin was one of the younger, less experienced competitors to enter a competition to design the first Australian decimal coinage. He stated, "There was nothing for me to lose, but to have a go,". Devlin was originally an art teacher, specialising in gold and silversmithing. He won the competition which allowed his art form to be highlighted in a way it never had before. Following the competition, Devlin then moved to London, England. This allowed him to pursue his passion further and open his own workshop. Here, he could develop his style and create some of his most sought-after limited edition collector’s pieces. He also created other iconic items; ranging from goblets, centrepieces and champagne flutes to jewellery, coins, and medals.
His specific style included mixing gold and silver to produce various textures and filigree forms, often adapting or devising new techniques, which had not been seen previously. As a result, Devlin’s style revolutionised this art form and inspired a generation of gold and silversmiths.
In 1982, Devlin was granted a Royal Warrant as Goldsmith and Jeweller to her late Majesty the Queen. Furthermore, his popularity grew and he was soon considered one of the 20th century’s most talented artists. In 1988, Stuart was awarded the ‘Officer of the Order of Australia’, for his service in goldsmithing, silversmithing and design.
The Surprise Eggs
These silver ‘surprise’ eggs were made in small, limited editions, often of just 100 pieces.
Hidden inside the textured silver-gilt shells are beautiful creations depicting flora and fauna, or figurative and decorative scenes to commemorate special occasions. Often detailed in gilt and brightly coloured enamels and only to be revealed when the top half of the eggshell is removed.
These ornamental eggs only have one function – to enchant. Devlin said "the objects which have no function whatever, except to delight, to surprise, to intrigue – made entirely for enjoyment" – and they do just that!
Stuart Devlin at Auction
Stuart Devlin, silver-gilt surprise egg 'Rabbits under flowering bush'
Price Realised: £533.00
Silver, Novelties & Plated Ware | Thursday 30th May
Viewing times (ID required):
Birmingham
Wednesday 29th May 10:00 – 16:00
Thursday 30th May 08:30-10:00
Virtual viewings are available by request. Virtual viewings are the ultimate personal shopping experience. Using Zoom, you can ask us whatever you need to know to buy with confidence. Find out more here.
Chloe Hartley MA (Hons) | Junior Cataloguer
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