Lot 278
Don Tomas Vega (Mexican, 20th century). Two silver dishes, ca. after 1979. Spratling hallmark, "DT," and "TS-24" stamped on underside of each base. A gleaming pair of sterling silver plates from the legendary Spratling workshop, where modern design and Mexican craftsmanship found their most famous handshake. Clean-lined and confidently spare, each plate is built around a softly recessed well framed by a wide rim, the surface articulated with evenly spaced, wedge-like divisions that lend the form a subtle rhythm and architectural clarity. The plates are marked "TS-24," identifying the model number and confirming production after 1979 under Sucesores de William Spratling, the continuation of Spratling's workshop legacy after his death in 1967. Size: 11.25" Diameter x 0.75" H (28.6 cm x 1.9 cm); silver quality: sterling; total weight: 700 grams
They also bear the maker's mark "DT," attributed to Tomas Vega, known as Don Tomas, who began working for William Spratling at the age of eight and later continued as maestro at the Spratling Ranch - a rare living bridge between the founder's golden era and the workshop's later production.
Finished in bright .925 silver, the pair retains a handsome, gently worn surface, the kind of honest patina that proves these were not made to sit quietly in a cabinet. Together they represent the enduring authority of the Spratling name in 20th century Mexican silver - not just as an aesthetic, but as a workshop tradition built on training, lineage, and the stubborn pursuit of excellence. Marked to underside of each base with Spratling hallmark reading "William Spratling Taxco Mexico .925," "DT," and "TS-24."
Provenance: ex-private Moore collection, Denver, Colorado, USA, acquired prior to 1990
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#201176
- Condition: Some minor surface wear with a few light scratches and small abrasions. Light patina in areas, but all easily cleaned. Otherwise, both are intact and very nice with clear mark on underside of each base.
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