Repoussé Style, Then and Now: A Celebration of the Art of Michael Izrael Galmer
The ancient metalworking technique of repoussé, the art of raising ornament in relief from the reverse side, has a rich history. In America, repoussé-style silver became associated early on with Baltimore, largely through the influence of the China trade and its introduction of complementary carved and ornamented wares. From the mid-19th century through the post-World War II era, repoussé became a kind of aesthetic moniker for the “Monument City.” This often ornate style fell out of fashion in the last quarter of the 20th century, but has since seen a resurgence of interest nationwide, in part through the modern interpretations and applications of contemporary Russian-émigré silversmith Michael Izrael Galmer. This exhibition brings together thirty important pieces of Galmer’s silverwork and jewelry, displayed alongside historical examples of repoussé flatware and hollowware from the Evergreen Museum & Library collection.
The exhibition is included with paid museum admission and on view as part of the guided tour.