For International Women’s Day, we’re spotlighting four women at Sworders and the opportunities, learning and support that have shaped their careers.
8 March 2026
We are delighted to offer the extensive archive of silversmith A. E. Jones in our next Open House sale, live for bidding from Tuesday 3 - Monday 9 March.
2 March 2026
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A. E. Jones was an important Arts and Crafts metalworking firm founded by Albert Edward Jones (1879-1954) in 1902 and based in Birmingham until its closure in the 1980s. Originally, the firm's major commissions were for ecclesiastical plate and beautifully designed and produced domestic pieces.
In 1905, A. E. Jones & Co. acquired Jesson Birkett & Co. Ltd., and during this period, Anne Grisdale Stubbs began working there. Her influence helped steer the company towards more ornamental and expressive pieces. Under her direction, designs became increasingly refined, with decorative flourishes that retained Arts and Crafts principles while appealing to evolving early twentieth-century tastes.
From the 1930s onwards, while silver and civic plate remained central to its output, the company also produced exceptional works in copper, brass, and bronze. These materials allowed for greater experimentation with texture and patina, broadening the aesthetic vocabulary of the firm while maintaining its commitment to handcrafted quality.
The extensive archive of silversmith A. E. Jones, including an `inspiration archive of images and ideas for designs (£200-500)
The enduring appeal of A. E. Jones lies not simply in craftsmanship, but in philosophy; with the firm representing a bridge between late 19th century Arts and Crafts ideals and 20th century modernity. It demonstrated that handcrafted artistry could survive, and even flourish, within an increasingly industrial world.
"A piece of silverwork to be really interesting must be endued with a Spirit of Art....."
- A. E. Jones, 1906
For collectors of British silver, decorative arts enthusiasts, and historians of design, A. E. Jones stands as a testament to the power of vision, skill, and consistency. More than a Birmingham workshop, it was a standard-bearer for artistic metalwork in Britain and holds a legacy that continues to shine.
This incredible archive, alongside a wide range of other lots including works of art, furniture and ceramics, will feature in this week's Open House timed auction (Tuesday 3 - Monday 9 March).
Viewing is available at our Stansted Mountfitchet Auction Rooms at the following times:
Wednesday 4 March | 10am-3pm
Thursday 5 March | 10am-3pm
Friday 6 March | 10am-3pm
Monday 9 March | 10am-3pm
openhouse@sworder.co.uk | 01279 817778
For International Women’s Day, we’re spotlighting four women at Sworders and the opportunities, learning and support that have shaped their careers.
8 March 2026
We are excited to share a collection of works from the estate of John Nash that features in our 31 March 'Modern & Contemporary Art' auction.
6 March 2026
One of the most rewarding aspects of our auctions is the opportunity to present a personal collection - an intimate glimpse into the tastes, influences and inspirations that shaped an individual’s life. This March, our Modern & Contemporary Art sale offers exactly that: a capsule of 20 works (lots 202–221) from the private art collection of Michael Rand, the celebrated art editor and director of The Sunday Times Magazine.
6 March 2026