Felipe Martinez Piedra y Plata Mexican silver obsidian Necklace

A trained sculptor, Felipe Martinez created some of the most amazing “mask” jewelry in the golden period of Mexico’s 20th c. Silver Renaissance. His ability to work with precious metal and stone is astounding, the two materials becoming like one whole in his inlaid designs while in his “mask” creations turning into living, breathing figures in a deeply serene sleep. I am particularly excited to present this combination pin/pendant necklace here not only because of the absolute beauty of its repoussage and the perfection in the lapidary work but also because it is quite rare to find such a piece by Martinez with its original chain. A series of cylindrical links held together with round connectors, the chain can be removed so you can wear the “mask” as a brooch too…

Size / Weight: 16 1/2” long (wearable; can easily accept a simple extension, should you need more length); pin/pendant is 2 3/8” tall by 2” wide; width at the chain is 3/16” (the diameter of the links); 74.7 grams (for the set)

Hallmarks / Date: fully signed with maker’s name and “Piedra y Plata” as shown as well as “STERLING MEXICO” and des. no 141; pre-1948

Condition: very good vintage with sublime repoussage, some of the most beautiful pieces of golden sheen obsidian I have seen (you can see in the photos how the volcanic glass shimmers when the light hits it), a masterfully carved “mask” and no unsightly damage or repairs; please note, however, that it seems the “mask” used to have earrings which are now missing; it is very difficult to see that and I only became aware of the issue as I was looking at the photos I took with my macro lens

Inv# 15409