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The funding for this work came from money that was left to the city council by Colonel Rupert Alexander Smith, who was an important member of the Hull and Holderness establishment and was Lord Mayor of Hull (1970), as well as being lord lieutenant of Humberside (1970).
Due to reorganisation in 1974, and following cuts to local government funding, these roles were abolished. But they were reinstated by the Queen last year to mark Her Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee.
The commissioning of the chain demonstrates the council’s support for the arts within the city and support for the growing Creative Quarter within Hull, where Oresome Gallery and Jewellery Workshop is based.
The chain and fobs (medals) for the positions have been designed and handmade by Oresome’s partners, Nicola Fidell Chapman and Vicky Prince.
“This has been a great opportunity and we have thoroughly enjoyed creating the piece that will be worn by the High Steward of Hull. I believe that through this commission the council has shown significant confidence in local creative talent and craftsmanship, which makes the pieces even more exceptional to us at Oresome,” said Vicky Prince.
The role of High Steward has been given to Lord Peter Mandelson, whilst Virginia Bottomley, a former Tory MP, has been selected for the role of Sheriff of Hull.
