Sterling silver
Mexico, circa 1940
Stamped: ‘SPRATLING’ / ‘MADE IN MEXICO’ / framing hallmark / ‘STERLING’
Lapis lazuli and green stone
Dimensions, pendant: 3 7/8 x 2 in. (9.84 x 5.08 cm)
Inside circumference, necklace: 15 ¾ in. (40.00 cm)
Total weight: 72.6 dwt, 113.0 g
Good condition

A striking piece, this William Sprating necklace was handmade in sterling silver with a flat, wrap around choker necklace which hinges onto a descending pendant for a streamlined, seamless look. The top of the pendant is centered with a bezel set green stone joined to a concentric ring with three beads. This suspends another flat silver link appended to a fascinating lapis lazuli which has been carved into a scalloped, shell shaped form. In good condition with wear commensurate with age. Please note repairs have been made to the matrix in the lapis.

William Spratling (American, 1900-1967)

William Spratling was born in upstate New York, later moving to Alabama, where he studied architecture at the Alabama Polytechnic Institute. Upon completion of his studies, he taught architecture at Tulane. He lectured on Colonial architecture at the National University of Mexico’s summer school from 1926-1928. It was there that he became interested in Mexico’s post-revolution socio-political situation. Spratling moved to Taxco, Mexico in 1931 to re-establish a once vital silver industry. Drawing on traditional pre-Columbian motifs, William Spratling created jewelry and household objects which combined ethnic inspiration with current tastes for modern design. His later work showed a greater sense of refinement with less of the pre-Columbian influences. Working in silver, often embellished with exotic wood, he employed local goldsmiths to create his wares by hand. This sense of the hand-crafted object was integral to Spratling’s work and has helped to make his work highly collectible.

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