Gilbert and Sullivan Gate Screen
Reproduction
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Object number20527
TitleGilbert and Sullivan Gate Screen
Creator Robert Hutchison (Artist)
DescriptionWhen you take a stroll in the Smith’s gardens you will come across the beautifully intricate Gilbert & Sullivan Gate. It is made from stainless steel and was designed in the 1990s by Stirlingshire artist and blacksmith Robert Hutchison. He trained at Edinburgh School of Art and worked as a blacksmith using brass, copper and stainless steel.
The Gate was commissioned by British Steel and the Savoy Hotel, London to commemorate the centenary of the hotel, and celebrate its links with the comedic opera duo Gilbert and Sullivan. A closer look reveals a treble clef with the initials G&S on each side. But can you spot the word Savoy? Characters from three of their most famous operas feature: HMS Pinafore takes centre stage, flanked by The Mikado and The Pirates of Penzance.
Metalworking was an important trade in the Stirling area for centuries – of the Seven Incorporated Trades of Stirling, the Hammermen were considered the first and most significant. Blacksmiths were kept busy making and mending tools and machinery, and there were many small foundries until well into last century.
The Savoy Hotel was taken over and British Steel ceased trading before the gates could be installed - they have never actually left Stirling.
Production date 1988 - 1999
Object nameGate, Gate Screen
MaterialStainless Steel
Dimensions
whole Width: 2000 mm
whole Height: 2000 mm
whole Weight: 800 cwt
whole Height: 2000 mm
whole Weight: 800 cwt