1998 Emilia Castillo Frog Salt & Pepper Shakers Blue Porcelain Pure Silver - Pair

Details

Description

An exceptional and whimsical pair of Mexican Modernist frog salt and pepper shakers designed and handcrafted by renowned Taxco silversmith … Read more An exceptional and whimsical pair of Mexican Modernist frog salt and pepper shakers designed and handcrafted by renowned Taxco silversmith Emilia Castillo in 1998.

Beautifully executed in rich, matte navy blue porcelain with sculptural pure silver (Plata Pura) frog figures, these collectible table accessories demonstrate Castillo's imaginative approach to traditional Mexican silversmithing and decorative arts.

Each shaker features a softly rounded, egg-shaped porcelain body crowned by a highly detailed, three-dimensional silver frog. The expressive amphibians appear to climb over the curved surfaces, their delicately modeled legs and outstretched feet contrasting beautifully with the smooth blue porcelain. Small applied silver dragonfly motifs embellish the bodies, adding a playful nature-inspired element to the composition.

The frogs display distinctive open mouths, textured silver surfaces, and charming individual poses, giving each piece its own sculptural personality.

The combination of vibrant blue porcelain, intricately worked silver, and organic animal forms reflects Emilia Castillo's celebrated artistic vocabulary, in which traditional Taxco silver craftsmanship meets modern sculpture, imaginative design, and functional art.

Mexican Modernism & Collectible Taxco Silver

Emilia Castillo belongs to the distinguished artistic tradition of Mexican silver design established by influential figures such as William Spratling, Antonio Pineda, Héctor Aguilar, and Los Castillo.

Her distinctive work also appeals to collectors of Margot de Taxco, Matilde Poulat, and Salvador Terán, whose imaginative silverwork and decorative objects helped define the broader landscape of 20th-century Mexican craftsmanship.

While stylistically distinct from these designers, Castillo's creations share an appreciation for artisanal techniques, sculptural experimentation, and the rich artistic heritage of Taxco, Mexico.

Equally appealing as functional salt and pepper shakers or miniature sculptural works of art, this charming pair is ideal for a curated dining table, sophisticated kitchen, breakfast setting, or collection of Mexican Modernist silver and ceramics.

Their rich blue coloration and playful silver frogs make them especially attractive to collectors of animal-themed tableware, Mexican folk-inspired decorative arts, and luxury handcrafted objects.

Designer: Emilia Castillo

Origin: Taxco, Guerrero, Mexico

Date: 1998

Materials: Navy blue porcelain and pure silver (Plata Pura)

Measurements:

Larger shaker (#1):
Height: 3 inches
Diameter: 2 inches

Smaller shaker (#5):
Height: 2.75 inches
Diameter: 1.75 inches

Signatures and Hallmarks:
Both pieces are signed and inscribed on their bases:
"Emilia Castillo MR Plata Pura Taxco Mexico 1998"
Individually numbered #1 and #5.

Condition: Vintage condition with visible natural surface variations and patina to the silver elements, consistent with the photographs. See less