A Stunning Vintage Modernist Taxco Mexican Sterling Silver and Brass Cuff Bangle Bracelet by Alicia

Description

Discover this captivating vintage modernist Taxco Mexican sterling silver and brass cuff bangle bracelet, a striking piece of mid-century design from the silver capital of Mexico. This authentic Mexican treasure is hallmarked MEXICO TO-40 950 ALICIA, clearly identifying its origin in Taxco, its maker Alicia, and its high silver purity. The T in the maker's mark TO-40 signifies Taxco, the second letter O is the first letter of the maker's last name (though Alicia is a recognized name in Taxco silver), and 40 is the specific maker's registration number, a system introduced around 1979 and still in use. This high-grade 950 silver (a purity higher than standard sterling) piece features a substantial silver band hinged to open easily with a secure clasp, showcasing a bold, asymmetrical cut-out where a warm brass accent elegantly hooks through, creating a dynamic, two-tone aesthetic that exemplifies modernist style. Weighing in at 54.7 grams, this is a piece with pleasing heft and quality. It measures a comfortable size 6 3/4", perfect for a medium wrist.

This bracelet represents the legacy of Mexican silver jewelry, a genre that flourished, particularly in Taxco, beginning with the arrival of William Spratling in the 1930s and extending through the mid-to-late 20th century. Mexican silversmiths, often trained in the workshops of masters, drew heavily on pre-Columbian motifs and traditions while adapting contemporary design trends, giving rise to the distinct, bold, and often sculptural "modernist" style. The use of mixed metals, as seen in the pairing of the bright 950 sterling silver with brass, was a common technique used to add visual interest and dimension to these artistic pieces. Alicia, and other master artisans of the era, produced works known for their clean lines, abstract forms, and exceptional craftsmanship, making pieces like this highly collectible today as wearable art and important design history. The bracelet's sleek lines and architectural presence ensure it remains a timeless statement piece.