Elna Mexican Deco silver Mandarin-with-fan Pin Brooch

Elna is a name in Mexico's 20th c. Silver Renaissance I have learned to look for over the years. We don't really know much about them - what is new, right? - but my experience with their jewelry allows me to say that their creations are more often than not impressive in proportions, the quality of materials used very high, their craftsmanship commendable and their designs quite pleasing to the eye. In the case of the figural brooch at hand Elna veers away from traditional Mexican "mask" jewelry into the realm of 1930s-40s stereotypical representations of the "Far East". Carved out of dyed calcite the portrait of the obviously Asian man is shown wearing a 19th c. Chinese mandarin hat, his eyes rendered in the most exaggerated manner, holding a proverbial fan...

Size / Weight: 3" tall by 2" wide; 40.5 grams

Hallmarks / Date: "Elna" as well as "MEXICO STERLING"; 1930s-40s

Condition: excellent vintage with stunning presence, a beautifully carved stone, great patina and no damage or repairs noted

Inv# 15263