1980s Mexican Porcelain & Pure Silver Salt & Pepper Shakers Made in Mexico by Emilia Castillo

Details

Description

A charming and highly collectible pair of sculptural dove-shaped salt and pepper shakers designed and handcrafted by renowned Mexican silversmith … Read more A charming and highly collectible pair of sculptural dove-shaped salt and pepper shakers designed and handcrafted by renowned Mexican silversmith Emilia Castillo in Taxco, Mexico.

Beautifully combining smooth ivory-white porcelain with applied pure silver (Plata Pura) details, these whimsical bird sculptures exemplify Castillo's distinctive approach to Mexican Modernist decorative arts and functional tableware.

Each bird features an elegantly elongated silver beak, expressive hand-detailed eyes, and intricately patterned silver feather motifs across its wings and tail. Their rounded, minimalist forms create a striking contrast with the finely worked metallic details, transforming everyday dining accessories into miniature works of art.

The two birds feature complementary poses, with one extending its beak horizontally while the other raises its head upward, creating a playful and dynamic sculptural composition.

Both pieces are hand-signed and retain their original Emilia Castillo hallmarks, reading:

Emilia Castillo, Plata Pura, Mexico, M.R.

Individually numbered #1 and #7.

Emilia Castillo is celebrated for her imaginative interpretations of Mexico's rich silversmithing tradition. Her designs combine traditional Taxco metalworking techniques with unconventional materials, organic forms, and whimsical nature-inspired subjects.

Her work appeals to collectors of Mexican Modernism and Taxco silver, particularly admirers of William Spratling, Antonio Pineda, Héctor Aguilar, Margot de Taxco, and Los Castillo. Although each designer developed a distinctive artistic vocabulary, their work collectively represents the craftsmanship and innovation associated with 20th-century Mexican decorative arts.

Perfect for an elegant dining table, breakfast setting, curated collection of Mexican silver, or as decorative objects displayed on a shelf or tabletop. These charming doves bring together art, craftsmanship, and everyday functionality.

Measurements:
Dove #1:
Height: 2.50 inches
Width: 4.00 inches
Depth: 2.00 inches

Dove #7:
Height: 3.50 inches
Width: 2.50 inches
Depth: 1.75 inches

Materials: Porcelain and pure silver (Plata Pura).
Origin: Taxco, Guerrero, Mexico.
Designer / Manufacturer: Emilia Castillo.
Marks: Hand-signed Emilia Castillo, Plata Pura, Mexico, M.R., individually numbered #1 and #7.

Condition: Vintage condition with visible surface variations and natural patina to the silver details, as shown in the photographs.

Sold as a pair. See less