Hector Miller was born in 1945 in West Sussex, and though he comes from a string musical background, became interested in silversmithing at the age of 15.
After studying at his local Worthing art school he moved onto Hornset College of Art to study 3D design. Whilst studying at the Royal College of Art he made a pair of batons to mark the Commonwealth Games in Edinburgh after winning a competition.
Hector Miller Commissions
He then later became a part of Stuart Devlin’s workshop, producing commissions for clients such as York Minster and the Shah of Iran. He would go on to create multiple pieces for a host of Cathedrals as well as manufacturing a cruet that had been designed by Malcolm Appleby.
A Fusion of Styles For Miller
In 1974, Miller set up his own company, and bought Leslie Durbin’s workshop a year later in Camden Town. This is still in operation today. Miller was made Liveryman of Goldsmith’s in 1986 having held exhibitions there since the late 1960s. He is noted for his technique of fusing component parts together to create unique silver pieces. This is something that he returned to around the turn of the millennium. He has produced cruets for Goldsmith’s as well as items for Downing Street.
Hector Miller Prime Warden Duties
In 2000, he was made a member of the Court of Assistants. Miller was made Prime Warden of Goldsmith’s for a year, having overseeing the summer ‘Mindful of Silver’ exhibition of 2011. This showcased his work alongside that of 11 other leading contemporary silversmiths. His work as part of the exhibition features enamelling from his wife, Frances Loyen. He was also in charge of overseeing the opening of the Goldsmiths’ Centre. Miller also runs a second workshop in his second home in the South of France.
Follow the link to see our impressive Hector Miller Candelabra:
A superb silver candelabra made in 1981 by Hector Miller to commemorate the wedding of Prince Charles (The Prince of Wales) to Lady Diana Spencer.
Other Famous Silversmiths A E Jones
Prime Warden of the Goldsmiths’ Company and silversmith Hector Miller spoke at the awards and praised Grace for his winning design. “One of the Prime Warden’s privileges is to encounter at first hand, not just inspirational creative design in silver, but also remarkable technical craftsmanship. This is especially true of Shaun Grace, the 17th winner of this annual competition.”
