Edward Charles Moore Paintings

Edward Charles Moore was an influential American designer who played a significant role in the development of American silverware in the 19th century. Born in 1827, Moore became associated with Tiffany & Co., one of the most prestigious jewelry and silver firms in the United States. His impact on the company, and in turn on American design, was profound, as he led the firm’s silverware department to international acclaim.

Moore joined Tiffany & Co. in 1851 and quickly rose through the ranks. By 1868, he was the head of the silverware department, a position he held until his death in 1891. Under Moore's direction, Tiffany's silver studio produced innovative designs and high-quality pieces that blended aesthetics from different cultures and historical periods. He was instrumental in introducing Japanese-style silverware to the American market, which became highly popular during the Aesthetic Movement of the late 19th century.

Edward C. Moore was not only a designer but also an avid collector of Asian art, which influenced his work at Tiffany & Co. He incorporated motifs from the arts of Japan, China, and the Middle East, which were then adapted into the company’s silverware designs. This resulted in a distinctive style that was both eclectic and harmonious, appealing to the cosmopolitan tastes of the period.

One of Moore's most significant contributions to the world of design was his involvement in the creation of the celebrated Tiffany Diamond, which the company acquired in 1878. Although not a designer of jewelry, Moore's guidance within the company established the standards of craftsmanship and innovation that allowed Tiffany & Co. to excel in various areas, including the cutting and setting of the diamond.

Moore's tenure at Tiffany & Co. coincided with an era of great industrial and cultural growth in the United States. The Centennial Exposition of 1876 in Philadelphia was a showcase for American industry and design, and under Moore's leadership, Tiffany & Co. earned accolades for their display. His expertise and vision were central to establishing the firm's reputation for excellence and contributed to the shaping of American decorative arts during the Gilded Age.

Edward Charles Moore died in 1891, leaving behind a legacy as a pioneer in the American silver industry. His work continued to influence designs at Tiffany & Co. and the wider field of silverware design long after his passing. Today, his pieces are considered highly collectible and are held in high regard by museums and collectors worldwide, representing a golden era of American decorative arts.