
The Makers Series: Hester Bateman
Despite her humble origins, Hester Bateman is widely revered as one of England’s finest silversmiths and the founder of a dynasty that lasted for nearly a century. Her exceptional flatware and ornamental silver remain much in demand today.
She was born Hester Nedem (or Needham) and was baptised in London on October 7, 1708. Little is known about her formative years, other than her parents Elizabeth and John Needham were poor and that consequently she received no formal education.