Mixed-Metal Elephant Family Brooch with Silver, Brass, and Copper
Jewelry (Brooch/Pin) · Unknown Studio Jewelry Maker; likely a boutique designer specializing in mixed-metal wearable art from the late 20th century.
Pattern: Non-matching whimsical animal series; featuring a 'Mother and Baby' or 'Family Herd' motif.
Type
Jewelry (Brooch/Pin)
Maker
Unknown Studio Jewelry Maker; likely a boutique designer specializing in mixed-metal wearable art from the late 20th century.
Material
Mixed media: Central large elephant in sterling silver or silver-plated alloy, medium elephant in brass, and smaller calf in copper. Secondary silver-tone wire hoop framing.
Dimensions
Estimated 4-5 cm in width; approximately 15-25 grams. Small enough for lapel wear but substantial due to layered metals.
Description
An evocative and charming mixed-metal brooch depicting a family herd of three elephants. The largest elephant, in a darkened silver tone, leads the group, followed by a mid-sized brass elephant and a small copper calf. The entire group is framed within a double-circle silver-tone wire, creating a sense of movement and depth through layered textures and contrasting metallic hues.
Key Features
Tri-color metal palette; textured 'wrinkled' skin detail; symbolic family representation; whimsical stylized trunks raised in a 'good luck' gesture.
Material & Composition
Mixed media: Central large elephant in sterling silver or silver-plated alloy, medium elephant in brass, and smaller calf in copper. Secondary silver-tone wire hoop framing.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized (antiqued) finish on the silver to highlight texture; stamped/cast surface texture mimicking elephant skin and anatomical details; matte finish on brass and copper accents.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Marks likely located on the reverse side (not visible in image); expected marks would include '925' or 'Sterling' and potentially a maker's hallmark or 'Mexico'.
Construction Details
Layered construction involving separate metal components (die-struck or cast) that are likely riveted or soldered together. Surmounted on a thin, hand-formed circular wire frame.
Functional Features
Horizontal pin-back on reverse with a safety clasp; wire loop frame adds structural stability and framing for the central figures.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable; brooch fastener consists of a traditional pin-and-revolving-catch mechanism on the back.
Craftsmanship Details
Artisanal quality involving multi-metal soldering and hand-finishing; the textural contrast between the metals demonstrates high attention to visual composition.
Authentication Indicators
Material layering and solder points; natural patina development on the copper and brass; design consistency with 'Taxco' or Southwest artisan styles.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely North America (USA or Mexico). Hand-assembled utilizing pre-cast or die-struck animal motifs in an artisan studio factory.
Era & Period
Modern Era; late 20th century (c. 1970-1990). Stylistically aligned with the Arts & Crafts revival and the Southwestern mixed-metal jewelry trend.
Age Estimate
Circa 1980-2000; the use of tri-metal (silver, brass, copper) was a popular aesthetic in American artisanal jewelry during this period.
Cultural Significance
Represents the trend of 'Wearable Art' from the late 20th century where silver was frequently paired with 'base' metals like copper and brass for color contrast rather than purely for value.
Condition Notes
Very Good; significant surface oxidation on the silver and copper which is intentional for the 'antiqued' look. Wire frame shows slight distortion consistent with use.
Value Estimate
Market value ranges from $35 to $85 depending on silver purity and maker identification on the reverse.
Care & Maintenance
Gentle hand-polishing with a soft cloth; avoid liquid silver 'dips' as they will strip the intentional oxidation and may damage the brass/copper patina.
Similar Pieces
Taxco Mixed Metal jewelry; mid-century copper jewelry by Renoir or Matisse; studio pieces by Bell Trading Post.
Interesting Facts
In many cultures, elephants with trunks turned upward are considered symbols of luck, prosperity, and protection, making this a popular jewelry motif.