Apprentice Piece

Brass knot, probably made by an apprentice member of the Hammermen, the Trades group for blacksmiths and metal workers. This trade did not include the silversmiths who were not incorporated.   Each apprentice served five years. At the end of this time he had to produce an example of his work to prove he had reached a satisfactory standard. If successful he would become a journeyman and after another three years he would become a master craftsman.