Emilia Castillo Cockatoo Silver Bowl With Volcanic Rock Base, 1980s

Details

Description

A whimsical and sculptural silver-plated serving bowl with volcanic rock base designed and handcrafted by Emilia Castillo in Taxco, Mexico … Read more A whimsical and sculptural silver-plated serving bowl with volcanic rock base designed and handcrafted by Emilia Castillo in Taxco, Mexico during the mid-1980s. This striking mixed-material piece embodies Castillo’s celebrated blend of Taxco silversmithing, natural stone inlay, and playful organic motifs.

Perched along the rim is a beautifully detailed cockatoo sculpture, hand-inlaid in quartz stone with brass beak, crest, and tail tip, and expressive stone eyes. The bird rests on a coiled silver perch that curves elegantly around the hammered bowl, adding movement and sculptural rhythm to the design. A hand-hammered silver spoon accompanies the set and is also fully hallmarked.

The bowl is supported by a three-leg volcanic rock base reminiscent of a traditional Mexican molcajete, a recurring form in Castillo’s most iconic works. A patinated turquoise-toned leaf accent on the rim completes the piece with her signature naturalistic touch.

Both the bowl and spoon retain the hallmark:
Emilia Castillo · Mexico · M.R. · TO-85 · Plateado

Measurements
Overall: 9" wide × 6" deep × 6.5" high
(22.86 cm × 15.24 cm × 16.5 cm)

Spoon: 6.5" long × 2 3/8" wide
(16.5 cm × 6 cm)

Condition Notes

The cockatoo shows a nick to the tail and loss to a portion of the crest, both shown in photos.
Normal age-appropriate oxidation and handling wear to silver.
Volcanic rock base is intact with no major damage. See less