William Spratling (American, 1900-1967). Bracelet, ca. 1935-1940. Silver, 1 1/8 x 7 3/4 in. (2.9 x 19.7 cm).Brooklyn Museum, Gift of Dr. Martin R. and Eve Lebowitz in memory of their parents,Henry and Esther Lebowitz, 2006.7.2. Creative Commons-BY-NC

The Museum provides the following information about Spratling:

Although one of the twentieth century’s most prolific creators of handmade jewelry, William Spratling stood consciously outside the modernist movement thatt flourished during his career. Trained as an architect, he was introduced to the idea of jewelry making during sojourns in Mexico beginning in 1926. In 1929 he moved to Taxco, Mexico, the site of centuries-old silver mines, and set up a company of local artisans to revive the art of silver hollowware and jewelry. His designs were inspired primarily by pre-Columbian motifs. This venture became an enormous success, especially during World War II and immediately after when department stores in the United States were cut off from European suppliers of luxury goods. Unfortunately, Spratling lost control of his company to other investors, and by 1946 Spratling y Artesanos was out of business. Thanks to his apprenticeship system, however, his legacy continues in Mexico today.

William Spratling (American, 1900-1967). Pair of Spurs, before 1952. Silver, 8 1/2 x 3 1/2 in. (21.6 x 8.9 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Museum Collection Fund and the Dick S. Ramsay Fund, 52.166.22. Creative Commons-BY-NC

See larger image Spratling Silver: A Field Guide : Recognizing a William Spratling Treasure (Paperback) By (author) Phyllis M. Goddard List Price: $39.95 USD New From: $44.95 In Stock Used from: $44.94 In Stock

Next time you’re in Brooklyn….. originally appeared on Vintage Mexican Silver on July 24, 2010. Turn to Vintage Mexican Silver for the latest news about auctions and dealers in vintage Mexican silver jewelry and silverware, including mid-century modern and modernist design, William Spratling, Margot de Taxco, Los Castillo, Sigi and Antonio Pineda, Matl, Hector Aguilar, and other famous Mexican silver designers.Tweet This