David Barker
Description
David Barker
The Antique Burnishing Company
The Antique Burnishing Company is dedicated to providing a unique service for connoisseurs of antique plate, fine metalwork and horology. Using traditional techniques and tools we are able to recreate, restore, or radically improve distressed surfaces. We offer expertise in hand burnishing and finishing of all metals and in particular antique plate in which we have, we believe, unique contemporary experience of dealing with some of the finest and most important items of antique silver and silver gilt gained from over 40 years practical experience.
Our workshop was established by David Barker in 1977 following his apprenticeship under the late Frank Beck with the premier London firm of Wakely and Wheeler in 1966.
Over the years we have been privileged to work on many of the great items of antique silver now in public and private collections around the world. In particular we are delighted to promote recognition of the expertise of the restorer who understands the myriad techniques used over the centuries and is able to harness these skills to recover the form and finish of past masterpieces. The Workshop operates to the old trade maxim of: “What is it? We can do it!” and is particularly proud to offer the services of both traditional hand burnishing and ultra-modern laser cleaning.