Cinco de Mayo—the Fifth of May—commemorates Mexico's victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. The celebration was short-lived, however. Within months, the French were back (with increased troop strength) and took Mexico City. In 1865, once the American Civil War was concluded, the United States began to support Mexican independents and pressured France to withdraw—which Napoleon III did in 1866.
Today, Cinco de Mayo has become a celebration of Mexican-American heritage, culture and cuisine. The feast actually is more popular in the United States than it is in Mexico itself. Though, today, other international locales are beginning to celebrate the holiday, too.
The copper vase, shown above, is hand-hammered from a single ingot of copper. It is formed freehand, the only tools utilized being a tongs, an anvil and hammers of various peens. As the ingot is hammered—and the vessel is raised—the craftsman works to keep an even wall, a balanced (symmetrical) shape, and a pleasant, even hammered-effect on the surface. The shape is reminiscent of a volcano—of which there are 14 in Mexico (12 still considered active). This vase is but one of several copper vessels in-stock at LEO Design. Click on the photo above to learn more about this handsome vase. Click here to see our collection of hand-hammered copper vases.
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).
We also can be found in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania at The Antique Center of Strabane (www.antiquecenterofstrabane.com).
Or call to arrange to visit our Pittsburgh showroom (by private appointment only). 917-446-4248