Since Pre-Columbian times, silver was mined in Taxco, Mexico. The Aztec ruler placed a governor in the old village so that "tributes" (of silver) would be paid to him by the conquered subjects. Later, the Spaniards arrived and modernized the mining operations which created a Sixteenth Century "Silver Rush." As a result, the town's infrastructure was greatly developed. Taxco was the biggest source of silver for the Spanish Empire. When the Mexican War of Independence (1810-1821) expelled, killed or diminished the European colonizers, the Spaniards deliberately closed-down the mines as they headed for the doors.
A century later, in the late 1920's, American artist and architect, William Spratling, began spending time in Taxco, eventually helping to organize the reopening of the mines. He was impressed with the silver-working skill of the people and began to facilitate the modern industry in Taxco. He developed an organized base of craftsmen, coordinated their efforts, and helped to export the best jewelry to a curious American market. Spratling, who had a deep love for the Mexican people and their culture, encouraged Taxco jewelry makers to design their own styles—many of them referencing ancient indigenous themes and aesthetics. During World War II, when imported European jewelry became scarce in the States, Spratling seized the moment and began to promote Mexican silver jewelry in America. He was able to place impressive pieces in some of the finest American jewelry departments of the day. This period—and the following decades—coincided with the rise of Modernism in the U.S., accounting for the large number of Mexican Modernist pieces to be found in vintage collections today.
The piece above straddles the Modernist and the Arts & Crafts looks. It is clearly botanically-inspired, yet, there is a certain abstract biomorphism present as well. On first glance, I saw a stylized Tudor Rose—which was certainly popular in the English Arts & Crafts era. The piece is marked "TN-36" which is understood to be the mark of artist Enrique Nassario. Click on the photo above to learn more about it.
Though our Greenwich Village store is now permanently closed, LEO Design is still alive and well! Please visit our on-line store where we continue to sell Handsome Gifts (www.LEOdesignNYC.com).
To arrange a visit our Pittsburgh showroom (by private appointment only), please call 917-446-4248.