Emilia Castillo Large Silver Plated Malachite Lizard Serving Tray, Mexico 1980s

Details

Description

An exceptional oversized silver-plated brass serving tray by celebrated Mexican artist Emilia Castillo, handcrafted in Taxco, Mexico, during the 1980s.

… Read more An exceptional oversized silver-plated brass serving tray by celebrated Mexican artist Emilia Castillo, handcrafted in Taxco, Mexico, during the 1980s.

Measuring an impressive 28 inches wide, this sculptural oval tray features a beautifully hand-hammered surface with a softly raised, organic rim. Two intricately detailed lizards with vibrant green malachite stone inlay adorn opposite ends, creating a striking contrast against the reflective silver-plated finish.

Emilia Castillo, daughter of renowned Mexican silversmith Antonio Castillo, comes from the distinguished family behind the legendary Los Castillo workshop. Her father trained under William Spratling, a pioneering figure in the revival of Taxco's silver industry. Emilia developed her own distinctive style, combining traditional Mexican metalworking with natural gemstones, whimsical animal motifs, and modernist forms.

Her work shares an artistic heritage with important Mexican designers and silversmiths including William Spratling, Los Castillo, Hector Aguilar, Margot de Taxco, and Alfredo Villasana, celebrated for their innovative use of metals, semiprecious stones, and organic designs.

Hand-signed by the artist and bearing the original hallmark Emilia Castillo, Mexico M.R., Plateado, TO-85.

A remarkable example of Mexican Modernism and collectible Taxco decorative arts, this substantial tray makes an elegant centerpiece for a dining table, coffee table, or console.

Condition: Vintage condition with visible surface scratches, natural patina, discoloration, and areas of silver-plating wear consistent with age and use. Please refer to the photographs for details.

Measurements:
Width: 28 inches
Depth: 19 inches
Height to lizards: 3 inches
Height to rim: 2.50 inches

Materials: Solid brass, silver plating, malachite stone inlay.
Origin: Taxco, Mexico, 1980s. See less