Gold-plated buckle
Naousa, late 19th century
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In 18th century Macedonia, as in other regions, the art of the silversmith flourished greatly, thanks to the demand by the bourgeoisie for silver objects and jewellery, which were also a form of investment.
The craftsmen who worked in silver, known as 'chrysikoi', practised their art either in permanent workshops, or as itinerant craftsmen, carrying their tools with them in special tool-chests. The main centres of silver-working were in Epirus (at Ioannina, Syrrako and Kalarrytes), in western Macedonia (at Nymphaion), and in Thrace (at Soufli).
Like ecclesiastical silver, secular silverware exhibits a high aesthetic quality and a great variety of forms and techniques. It includes household silver, accessories for men's dress, and above all jewellery worn with women's dress. The techniques for making these objects were engraving, often adorned with niello or enamel, casting, repoussé and filigree.
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