Felipe Martinez Piedra y Plata Mexican silver "mask" Pin / Pendant Necklace

Stunning and rare, especially in its use of the specific stone, this vintage Mexican silver necklace features a combination pin / pendant signed by Taxco's foremost lapidary, Felipe Martinez, and a substantial chain from the same period which I believe might be by the same maestro as it bears an Eagle assay mark that Martinez used. And yes, the superbly carved "mask" is teased out of tiger's eye stone though a more unusual kind that it often referred to as "hawk's" or "falcon's eye". I have sold a Piedra y Plata "portrait" brooch in amethyst some time ago with the same hair treatment but the "mask" itself is totally different. In the piece at hand the "mask's" ears are shown adorned with dangle earrings and both the facial features and the expression are not the same. Count on Martinez to offer a whole new perspective on things that seem familiar every single time! I will end by drawing your attention to the masterfully crafted chain; a perfect match, substantial and easily removed so you can enjoy it with other favorite pendants...

Size / Weight: pin / pendant is 2 3/4" tall by 1 3/4" wide; chain is 19 1/4" long; 75.2 grams (for the set; 50.9 for the pin/pendant and 24.3 for the chain)

Hallmarks / Date: pin / pendant signed "PIEDRA Y PLATA", "STERLING TAXCO" and bearing des. no 111; chain is hallmarked with Eagle 3 assay mark which was used by Martinez; 1950s-60s

Condition: excellent vintage with superb carving in the stone mask, perfect proportions, immaculate silver-work and warmly glowing patina, with no damage and no repairs noted - a rare and exceptionally beautiful example of Felipe Martinez's mastery over the art of the lapidary

Inv# 15925