Start with the outline
The collection covers many kinds of Groningen silver, from brandy bowls and jugs to tobacco boxes, book clasps and shoe buckles. Choose two objects with very different outlines. Can you already guess from the shape how they were held or used?
Look for the maker’s handwriting
With one object, look at the rim, clasp, feet and decoration. Where can you see that a silversmith had to choose between sturdiness and detail? Note down one question about the making process and put it to a member of staff; the display is ideally suited to looking slowly at small differences.
Church silver in a museum display case
According to regional visitor information, the Zilverkamer also shows beakers, bread plates and jugs lent by church congregations. Compare such an object with the silver made for domestic use. Which features are similar, and which detail reveals a different function?
Before you go
Current opening hours are not confirmed. Contact the Zilverkamer before you set off.
Sources
This first edition has been compiled from collected museum information. Not all of the information has yet been confirmed by the museum. Viewing tips are by the editorial team. The sources used are listed below.
- De Groninger Zilverkamer — opening hours
Supplied source reference; an independent source check is still needed. Official primary URL from the supplied check; the page could not be opened directly on the web during this writing round and needs to be checked again.
- Visit Groningen — De Groninger Zilverkamer
Supplied source reference; an independent source check is still needed. Regional tourism source for the visible offering; not a primary source for current opening hours.
- Stad Appingedam — Groninger Zilverkamer
Supplied source reference; an independent source check is still needed. Independent local source for specific collection items; figures and historical interpretation have not been adopted.