1980s Emilia Castillo Taxco “El Mar” Silver Plate Shell & Starfish Centerpiece Bowl

Details

Description

A striking extra-large coastal centerpiece bowl designed by renowned Mexican silversmith Emilia Castillo, part of the celebrated “El Mar” collection, … Read more A striking extra-large coastal centerpiece bowl designed by renowned Mexican silversmith Emilia Castillo, part of the celebrated “El Mar” collection, handcrafted in Taxco, Mexico.

This dramatic silver-plated and brass decorative bowl features a beautifully hand-hammered interior basin framed by an elegant sculptural rim adorned with seashell and starfish motifs, evoking the movement and textures of the ocean. The open sculptural perimeter creates an airy coastal aesthetic that feels both organic and sophisticated, making the piece equally suited for luxury dining, entertaining, or interior display.

With its generous 18-inch diameter, the bowl functions effortlessly as a salad bowl, fruit centerpiece, or statement serving piece, and is especially striking when styled on a Palm Beach, coastal, or contemporary dining table. Interior designers often incorporate pieces from Castillo’s El Mar series into projects seeking refined coastal character and artisanal craftsmanship.

The underside retains the Emilia Castillo hallmark:

“Plateado TO-85 – Emilia Castillo – Mexico M.R.”

confirming its authenticity and origin in the legendary Taxco silver tradition.

Today, Castillo’s designs are widely collected for their sculptural quality, organic marine themes, and connection to Mexico’s historic silversmithing heritage.

Measurements

Diameter: 18 in.
Height: 3 in.

Materials
Silver plate over brass
Origin
Taxco, Mexico



Emilia Castillo – Designer Biography

Emilia Castillo is one of the most celebrated contemporary silversmith designers working in Taxco, Mexico, a city internationally recognized as the heart of Mexican silver craftsmanship.

Born into a family deeply rooted in the Taxco silver tradition, Castillo established her own workshop in the late 20th century and quickly became known for her distinctive sculptural tableware and decorative objects inspired by nature, marine life, and organic forms.

Her pieces combine traditional hand-hammered silversmithing techniques with modern design, often incorporating brass, silver plate, gemstones, and semi-precious materials.

The “El Mar” collection, inspired by the sea, remains one of her most recognizable series and is sought after by collectors, interior designers, and luxury entertaining enthusiasts worldwide.

Today, Emilia Castillo works are featured in important private collections and high-end interiors, continuing Taxco’s legacy of fine metalwork while bringing a distinctly contemporary aesthetic to decorative arts. See less