Born to Scottish parents in Schenectady, New York in 1865, Robert Riddle Jarvie was not formally trained in metalsmithing, but he had an early penchant for sketching, bookbinding, and cabinet making. Once he relocated to Chicago, Jarvie began initial experiments with metalwork around the turn of the 20th century in his apartment.

In particular, a distinctive lantern that Jarvie made for a friend attracted more buyers. At the Third Annual Chicago Arts and Crafts Exhibit in 1900, Jarvie had the first opportunity to showcase his work. That same year he became a partner at Krayle Co., a commercial and social alliance of local artisans and craftsmen, and set up his studio, the Jarvie Shop, in Chicago’s Fine Arts Building on Michigan Aven...