Rare Early 1940s Taxco Mexico Round Turquoise Pin Brooch 980 Silver

Description: Antique Mexican Round Turquoise Brooch Sterling Silver Taxco Antique Mexican sterling silver round form brooch with a Turquoise cabochon centerpiece. It is decorated with cut-outs and engraved patterns and has lobed edge. Made in Taxco. This nice brooch is 1" in diameter and weighs 15.1 grams. A Glimpse Into the Past The tradition of silversmithing in Mexico traces its roots back centuries, flourishing since pre-Hispanic times. Throughout history, artisans have crafted exquisite pieces using precious metals like gold, silver, quartz, opal, and amber. The abundance of these materials, coupled with the exceptional craftsmanship of artisans, has long fueled the jewelry industry in Mexico However, the arrival of an American architect in the 1930s marked a significant shift in perspective and approach to doing things in Taxco. This architect's influence gave way to the famous Taxco Mexican silver, which continues to enjoy widespread recognition to this day. The Dawn of a New Era William Spratling, now regarded as the pioneer of Mexican silversmithing in Taxco, journeyed to Mexico with the purpose of documenting the customs and traditions of its people. As an architect, writer, designer, and member of Tulane University, he was commissioned by the US government to explore and write about the region. Enjoying close friendships with President Franklin D. Roosevelt and the US ambassador to Mexico, Dwight Morrow, Spratling found himself immersed in influential circles upon his arrival. He quickly forged connections with the prominent intellectuals of the era who frequented Taxco as a hub, including figures like David Alfaro Siqueiros, Diego Rivera, Frida Kahlo, Gerardo Murillo, and Manuel Gomez Morin, among others. In 1931, he established the Las Delicias Workshop, where he mentored the initial generation of Taxqueo silversmiths and jewelers. Their enduring legacy sustains the art of silversmithing, which today serves as both an artisanal tradition and a vital economic and tourist activity, integral to the way of life in this colonial town Las Delicias was not only a workshop but a silver school as well, where Spratling collaborated with local artisans to develop inventive designs blending pre-Hispanic tradition with contemporary flair. His creations garnered worldwide acclaim, symbolizing elegance, and unparalleled craftsmanship. Employing 300 artisans organized in guilds reminiscent of medieval traditions, masters mentored apprentices, who, after years of honing their skills and mastering various techniques, advanced in rank or established their own workshops. Pursuing Innovation and Excellence On June 27, 1935, William Spratling initiated a contest within the "Las Delicias" Workshop to commemorate its fourth anniversary, aiming to inspire the creativity of talented young silversmiths. The inaugural winner of this "Silverwork Contest" was 20-year-old Justo Lucio Castillo Tern, who earned a diploma and a prize of $50.00 pesos for his piece titled "Pulsera de Cocos" (Coconut Bracelet), earning him the moniker "Coco Castillo." Since then, the jewelry contest has become an annual tradition, and June 27 has been designated as Da del Platero (Silversmith's Day), honoring the contributions of these skilled artisans. In 1937, Antonio Pineda, a former apprentice who rose to become one of the renowned master silversmiths under William Spratling's guidance, proposed expanding this local contest to a national level, allowing silversmiths from across Mexico to participate and enhancing the recognition. Since then, every year during the last week of November, Taxco celebrates the "Feria Nacional de la Plata" (National Silver Fair) with the aim of honoring this silver trade. The first-place winner of this inaugural fair was the master craftsman Antonio Pineda. Remarkable Talent Sigi Pineda, Antonio Castillo, Antonio Pineda, Hctor Aguilar and Valentn Vidaurreta, all of them learned the craft of silversmithing at Las Delicias Workshop, becoming (among others) recognized masters of Mexican silver design. When each of Spratlings former workers decided to go their own way, the only thing he asked them to do was to develop their own style, and so they did.

Price: 175 USD

Location: Salinas, California

End Time: 2024-11-28T03:36:37.000Z

Shipping Cost: N/A USD

Product Images

Rare Early 1940s Taxco Mexico Round Turquoise Pin Brooch 980 Silver

Item Specifics

Restocking Fee: No

Return shipping will be paid by: Buyer

All returns accepted: Returns Accepted

Item must be returned within: 30 Days

Refund will be given as: Money Back

Number of Diamonds: no diamonds

Antique: Yes

Shape: Asymmetrical

Occasion: Anniversary, Birthday, Christening, Christmas, Confirmation/Communion, Engagement, Father's Day, Graduation, Mother's Day, Valentine's Day, Wedding

Main Stone Color: Turquoise

Metal: Sterling Silver

Item Length: see description

Secondary Stone: no secondary stone

Main Stone: Turquoise

Vintage: Yes

Main Stone Treatment: natural

Department: Unisex Adults

Main Stone Shape: Round

Base Metal: Sterling Silver

Gemstone Clarity Grade: Eye Clean

Features: Nickel-Free