Silver

From the early days of the young Commonwealth of Kentucky a distinguished tradition of silver-smithing is evident. Concentrated primarily in central Kentucky and Louisville, craftsmen fashioned objects of utility and elegance from silver coins often brought in bags on horseback from rural areas. Most notable amongst these was the legendary Asa Blanchard (c. 1770-1838) whose sophisticated simplicity has attracted collectors since the late nineteenth century. Indeed, R.C.B. Thruston, legendary president of The Filson Historical Society, acquired the works on display from the noted dealer Eleanor Offut. He also had his own christening cup re-tooled for a god-child. Asa Blanchard: Julep Cups and Silver Ladle Garner and Winchester: chased and repousse pitcher and matching goblets presented to Major Wm. E. Woodruff by the Marion Rifle Battalion c. 1860, and given by Edith Woodruff, his daughter. Silver christening cup, marked Gorham, but re-tooled in Louisville for R.C.B. Thruston.