John Edward Terrey

John Edward Terrey was a notable English silversmith active in the first half of the 19th century, producing high-quality tableware and presentation pieces in the Georgian and early Victorian styles. In addition to crafting fine new works, he was also known for altering and rechasing antique silver, a practice that helped restore and repurpose older pieces.

Little is known about Terrey’s early life or apprenticeship. He first registered his maker’s mark at Goldsmiths’ Hall in 1814 as a plateworker, in partnership with Samuel Hennell. The partnership dissolved in 1816, after which Terrey entered his own mark (IET) while continuing to work from the same address at Foster Lane, London.

In 1819, he relocated his workshop to Hatton Garden, a renowned centre for jewellers and silversmiths, where he remained until 1852. He then moved to Lewisham, Kent, where he lived until his death in 1859.

Terrey’s work, characterised by refined craftsmanship and classical design, is represented in major collections, including the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. His surviving pieces, often bearing his distinct mark, continue to be highly regarded by collectors and connoisseurs of fine silver.