How British Silversmithing Changed America's Dinner Tables

Culinary Historians of San Diego will present “How British Silversmiths Changed America’s Dinner Tables” by Carolyn Tillie, at 10:30 a.m. May 20, in the Neil Morgan Auditorium of the San Diego Central Library, 330 Park Blvd.

Did you inherit a family silver chest containing pieces you can’t identify? In this engaging presentation, culinary historian and food artist Carolyn Tillie will introduce you to the history and advances of the British metalworking trades and techniques which shaped silversmiths worldwide. Walking us through the invention of Old Sheffield Plate in 1743 through the use of electroplate, she will share examples from her expansive collection, bringing us into the Victorian and Edwardian eras where America took the lead with its novelty and specialty cutlery from asparagus, anchovy, lemon and oyster forks to bonbon, jelly, and olive spoons.

Carolyn Tillie is a culinary historian, artist and curator. With an Master in Fine Arts in jewelry and metal smithing from California State Long Beach, she also obtained a Certified Master Chef certificate from Epicurean School in Los Angeles and a Level Two certification from the Wine Spirit Education Trust. Combining gastronomic and artistic passions, she has specialized in food-themed jewelry and artwork, and is co-founder of the Bay Area Culinary Historians. After completing Oyster, A Global History for Reaction Press, she curated several exhibitions in conjunction with the release of her 2019 book, A Feast for the Eyes — Edible Art from Apple to Zucchini. Tillie’s latest work is her reaction to the global COVID-19 pandemic entitled Mixed Emotions recently exhibited in Berkeley, CA. She is now working on biographies of two famous culinary figures.

Audience members are welcome to bring along any silver pieces for an Antiques Roadshow-like. Q & A after the talk. A tasting will follow. The event is free and open to the public.