
Description
Emilia Castillo Sterling Silver & Volcanic Stone Molcajete with Spoon, Mexico, Later 20th Century
A sterling silver and volcanic stone molcajete (mortar) set is a functional sculptural object that bridges traditional craftsmanship and modern luxury. The handmade serving piece is modeled after the ancient Mesoamerican molcajete, traditionally used for grinding spices and preparing salsa or guacamole. Castillo's refined interpretation elevates the form with a hammered sterling silver bowl adorned with bold silver orbs encircling the rim, paired with a substantial curved-handled sterling silver spoon. The inner bowl rests within a hand-carved, tripod-footed volcanic stone base, offering both contrast and stability.
This sculptural piece draws inspiration from the traditional Mexican molcajete, reimagined with refined modernist sensibility. The hammered sterling silver inner bowl features a bold ring of applied silver orbs, resting within a hand-carved volcanic stone base supported on three integral legs. A matching hammered sterling silver spoon with a curved handle completes the set, echoing Castillo's distinctive organic-meets-industrial aesthetic.
Signed and registered by the artist, this piece exemplifies Castillo's celebrated fusion of elemental materials and luxurious metals. The contrast between the rough-hewn texture of the lava stone and the luminous sheen of silver makes for a compelling decorative and functional object. Ideal for serving guacamole, salsas, or as a striking tabletop statement, this molcajete set is both a conversation piece and a collectible work of design.
Dimensions: 3" high x 4" diameter
Weight: 4 oz (sterling components)
Marked: Signed and registered
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Good
Wear consistent with age and use.
Dimensions:
Height: 3 in.
Width: 4 in.
Depth: 4 in.
Category: Sterling Silver
Origin: Mexico
Materials: Sterling Silver, Stone
Creator: Designer: Emilia Castillo
Shipping:Domestic: Flat-rate of $34.00 to anywhere within the contiguous U.S. International: No International Shipping for this auction. Combined shipping: Please ask about combined shipping for multiple lots before bidding. Location: This item ships from West Palm Beach, FL
Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
A sterling silver and volcanic stone molcajete (mortar) set is a functional sculptural object that bridges traditional craftsmanship and modern luxury. The handmade serving piece is modeled after the ancient Mesoamerican molcajete, traditionally used for grinding spices and preparing salsa or guacamole. Castillo's refined interpretation elevates the form with a hammered sterling silver bowl adorned with bold silver orbs encircling the rim, paired with a substantial curved-handled sterling silver spoon. The inner bowl rests within a hand-carved, tripod-footed volcanic stone base, offering both contrast and stability.
This sculptural piece draws inspiration from the traditional Mexican molcajete, reimagined with refined modernist sensibility. The hammered sterling silver inner bowl features a bold ring of applied silver orbs, resting within a hand-carved volcanic stone base supported on three integral legs. A matching hammered sterling silver spoon with a curved handle completes the set, echoing Castillo's distinctive organic-meets-industrial aesthetic.
Signed and registered by the artist, this piece exemplifies Castillo's celebrated fusion of elemental materials and luxurious metals. The contrast between the rough-hewn texture of the lava stone and the luminous sheen of silver makes for a compelling decorative and functional object. Ideal for serving guacamole, salsas, or as a striking tabletop statement, this molcajete set is both a conversation piece and a collectible work of design.
Dimensions: 3" high x 4" diameter
Weight: 4 oz (sterling components)
Marked: Signed and registered
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Good
Wear consistent with age and use.
Dimensions:
Height: 3 in.
Width: 4 in.
Depth: 4 in.
Category: Sterling Silver
Origin: Mexico
Materials: Sterling Silver, Stone
Creator: Designer: Emilia Castillo
Shipping:
Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
Condition
Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; Good
Wear consistent with age and use.
Wear consistent with age and use.
Buyer's Premium
20%
Emilia Castillo Sterling Silver & Volcanic Stone Molcajete with Spoon
Estimate $950-$2,840
Starting Price
$460
1 bidder is watching this item
LiveAuctioneers Purchase Protection
Vetted auction houses
Secure, online bidding
Returns guaranteed for misrepresented listings
Dedicated support when you need it
The May Edit: Vintage & Antique Finds Art II
May 04, 2026 7:00 PM EDTNew York, NY, United States
TOP




















