Italian Silversmiths working in the Ottoman Empire

During the 19th century, Izmir (Smyrna) emerged as the Ottoman Empire’s premier hub for Italian gold and silversmiths, often surpassing the imperial capital in the specialized trade of gems and engraving. While Istanbul focused on royal patronage, Izmir’s thriving Levantine community and its status as a "Gateway City" created a massive commercial market for European-style luxury. Italian artisans—many with roots in Genoa or Malta—dominated the city’s Frank Quarter and the Kemeraltı Bazaar, where they became world-renowned for glyptic art, specifically the carving of exquisite cameos and intaglios set in gold. These master craftsmen blended Western precision with Eastern materials, producing high-end silver flatware and "hybrid" jewellery that served both the wealthy local merchant class and an export market to Europe.

There is not much research that we have found on these artisans, but here is a list of surnames seen that suggest an Italian family. 

P.DENNA & Co (Smyrna/Izmir)
(Seen on flatware and a pair of bowls)

B.RITTON
(Spoon holder)

P.TASSI (perhaps Greek - Tasis working in Smyrna/Izmir)
(Spoon holder)

G.PALMA (over 'SMIRNE')
(larger items such as vases and small salvers)