An iconic Mexican modernist handmade sterling silver and carved tortoiseshell 'Jaguar' brooch designed by William Spratling in the 1950s - measures 3.5" across by 2.5" tall, and weighs 46 grams - the tortoiseshell is particularly well figured and varied in this example! Spratling first went to Taxco to study its architecture in 1926, and returned in the early 1930s to establish his first business there. He hired local silversmiths to complete his designs, and his workshop was responsible for starting the careers of many who became the greats of Mexican jewelry and silver design in the 1940s, 50s, and 60s. Spratling was inspired by pre-Columbian art and many of his designs reflect this influence including this one. William Spratling died in 1967 as the result of a car crash outside of Taxco, but his legacy lives on through the efforts of Violante Ulrich and her sister Consuelo. Their father, Alberto Ulrich, was a close Spratling friend and supporter. Ulrich took over the Spratling enterprise after Spratling's death to keep it going and his daughters are also committed to this. Many of Spratling's designs were re-issued for decades after his passing by this enterprise. This example was made by one of the silversmiths that worked for William Spratling during his lifetime, but made after his death circa 1980. Available - contact me direct via message, or message me thru my Ruby Lane shop (link on my profile page).

An iconic handmade sterling silver and carved tortoiseshell 'Jaguar' brooch designed by William Spratling in the 1950s - measures 3.5" across by 2.5" tall, and weighs 46 grams.

Available via DM

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