S.J. Shrubsole
One of the world's foremost dealers in antique English and American silver since 1912.
S.J. Shrubsole — A Century of Antique English and American Silver
S.J. Shrubsole is one of the world's foremost dealers in antique English and American silver, with a history that stretches back to 1912. Founded in London and established in New York since 1936, the firm has supplied some of the most significant silver collections ever assembled and placed pieces in major museums worldwide. For over a century, the name Shrubsole has been synonymous with the highest quality of antique silver, old Sheffield plate, and related works of art.
Founding in London
S.J. Shrubsole was founded in London in 1912, establishing itself as a specialist in antique English silver and old Sheffield plate. The firm built a reputation in the London trade for the quality and authenticity of its stock, dealing primarily in pieces from the Tudor, Stuart, Georgian, and Victorian periods.
The American Expansion
In 1936, Eric N. Shrubsole opened a New York branch, arriving in America with a distinctive approach. He spent a year driving a black Packard loaded with silver and letters of introduction, visiting virtually every major city in the country. By the time he returned, he had laid the foundations for what would become one of America's finest antique shops. This combination of personal salesmanship and genuine expertise established the firm's American reputation in a single, remarkable year.
The New York gallery went on to serve some of the most distinguished collectors of the 20th century, including Irwin Untermyer, H.F. du Pont, Arthur Gilbert, William Randolph Hearst, and Groucho Marx. Major museum collections built with Shrubsole's assistance are now housed in institutions including the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Winterthur Museum.
Specialties
The firm's core expertise lies in antique English silver from the 16th through the 19th century, American silver from the Colonial period onward, and old Sheffield plate. The gallery also carries antique jewelry and selected works of art. Each piece is presented with detailed information on maker, date, assay marks, and provenance.
| Category | Period Coverage | Particular Strengths |
|---|---|---|
| English Silver | 16th–19th century | Tudor, Stuart, Georgian, and Victorian pieces |
| American Silver | Colonial–19th century | Early American silversmiths |
| Old Sheffield Plate | 18th–19th century | Fused plate examples |
| Antique Jewelry | Various periods | Selected fine pieces |
How S.J. Shrubsole Works
Shrubsole operates as a traditional gallery dealer from its New York location. The firm buys from private collections, estates, and other dealers, and sells to collectors, institutions, and the trade. Pieces are available for viewing by appointment or during gallery hours. The firm participates in major antiques fairs, including The Winter Show, and is a member of both BADA and the National Antique and Art Dealers Association of America (NAADAA).
Who Should Visit S.J. Shrubsole
The gallery is essential for serious silver collectors, museum curators building or refining collections, and anyone seeking antique silver with impeccable provenance. Interior designers sourcing period-appropriate silver for historic properties will also find the firm's depth of inventory and knowledge invaluable.
Frequently Asked Questions
The firm specializes in antique English and American silver, old Sheffield plate, antique jewelry, and selected works of art. Their primary expertise is in silver from the 16th through the 19th century, with particular depth in Georgian and early American pieces.
The firm was founded in London in 1912 and opened its New York branch in 1936. It has been in continuous operation for over a century, making it one of the longest-established silver specialists in the world.
The firm has helped build collections now housed in major museums worldwide. Notable collectors who worked with Shrubsole include Irwin Untermyer and H.F. du Pont, whose collections are at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and Winterthur Museum respectively.
Yes. S.J. Shrubsole is a member of BADA (the British Antique Dealers' Association) and NAADAA (the National Antique and Art Dealers Association of America), both of which require rigorous vetting of members.
The firm regularly acquires silver from private collections and estates. If you have antique English or American silver to sell, contacting the gallery directly is the recommended approach. They can assess pieces based on photographs initially, with in-person examination for serious acquisitions.
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