Christopher Perry

From his workshop in the north of Sheffield, overlooking the high moors, silversmith Christopher Perry creates objects and tableware in both sterling and britannia silver.

Christopher’s work is informed by his overview of silversmithing as both an industry and an art. Coming from the traditional workshops of Sheffield and then studying and using silver as an art material has given this craftsman a different perspective of the form. His inspiration often comes from the lines, angles and textures that can be elicited from a single flat sheet of material, from visualising objects, structures and contours. It comes from the joy of manipulating material, from extracting and evoking hitherto unseen shapes.

Christopher likes to experiment with surface textures, often by using hand chasing to create a tactile surface which enhances the function of a piece. In the Sheffield Millennium Gallery, within the Metalwork Collection, there is a short film showing all the skills and techniques involved in making his orb salt and pepper
grinders.

Christopher was honoured to be commissioned to make something for the Sheffield Assay Office Collection in their 250th year. His teapot was chased in a heavy square pyramid texture, this had the appearance of knurling, which is a link to Sheffield’s engineering past. The handle was made from Sheffield stainless steel, its strength allows it to be just fixed at the base, slowing the heat transfer from the pot.

No work is too big or small to make, Christopher has made several prestigious trophies in recent years, conversely he continually works to develop his beautiful range of Christmas decorations. Over the years this stunning collection has grown, creating a gorgeous selection of ornaments that make wonderful gifts.

In 2024 Christopher became a Freeman of the Goldsmiths Company and also the Cutlers’ Company, here in Sheffield.