The early decades of the craft were characterized primarily by large-scale imports from Parisian workshops. This period is represented by flatware, hollowware, and religious pieces, as well as items made for the principal patrons and illustrious families. Rare and precious objects have been chosen to demonstrate the way in which silverware crafted in Quebec gradually distinguished itself from the French silverware of the time. The exhibition also demonstrates how silversmiths echoed the popular 19th century trends, from eclecticism to revivalism. One section is devoted to a group of highly original works attesting to the desire to define a Canadian style during the formative years of Confederation.
Special attention is given to trophies and commemorative pieces.
An illustrated catalogue accompanies the exhibition and is for sale in the Lowe's Museum Store. The exhibition is organized and circulated by the National Gallery of Canada. Initially characterized by Western technical construction and working methods, due to the presence of European missionaries at the Imperial court, these influences abated after two decades. Although Qing glass involved many different techniques and extensive experimentation with color, the monochrome tradition dominates. These monochromes come in a broad array of colors, however, yellow was the Qing Imperial color and thus the most popular.