Description
For your consideration, a William Spratling octagonal wood and silver dish, likely functioning as an ashtray or a small tabletop catchall. Spratling, often called the "Father of Mexican Silver," is renowned for this signature combination of rich tropical woods (typically rosewood or ebony) and hand-hammered sterling silver.
This piece reflects Spratling's mid-century aesthetic, blending Pre-Columbian motifs with sleek, modernist geometric forms like the octagon.
The base is carved from a dense dark wood, while the bowl is hand-raised silver that typically shows intentional hammering marks on the interior.
While often designed as ashtrays, pieces without specific cigarette indentations are frequently used as salt cellars, nut dishes, or small containers for jewelry and change. Stamped TAXCO, .925 + Spratling's hallmark.
Dimensions: 4.88" W x 4.88" D x 1.38" H
Please take a look at our listings. We have an amazing curated collection of hard-to-find items.
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Original vintage unrestored condition. Expect signs of vintage wear. Stress fractures on the wood. Silver has vintage unrestored patina.
Overall good condition. Firm and sturdy.
Curated by AMBIANIC
Dimensions:
Height: 1.38 in.
Width: 4.88 in.
Depth: 4.88 in.
Category: Decorative Bowls
Origin: Mexico
Materials: Silver, Wood
Creator: Designer: William Spratling
Shipping:Domestic: Flat-rate of $52.00 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 Chula Vista, CA
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.
This piece reflects Spratling's mid-century aesthetic, blending Pre-Columbian motifs with sleek, modernist geometric forms like the octagon.
The base is carved from a dense dark wood, while the bowl is hand-raised silver that typically shows intentional hammering marks on the interior.
While often designed as ashtrays, pieces without specific cigarette indentations are frequently used as salt cellars, nut dishes, or small containers for jewelry and change. Stamped TAXCO, .925 + Spratling's hallmark.
Dimensions: 4.88" W x 4.88" D x 1.38" H
Please take a look at our listings. We have an amazing curated collection of hard-to-find items.
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Original vintage unrestored condition. Expect signs of vintage wear. Stress fractures on the wood. Silver has vintage unrestored patina.
Overall good condition. Firm and sturdy.
Curated by AMBIANIC
Dimensions:
Height: 1.38 in.
Width: 4.88 in.
Depth: 4.88 in.
Category: Decorative Bowls
Origin: Mexico
Materials: Silver, Wood
Creator: Designer: William Spratling
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; Original vintage unrestored condition. Expect signs of vintage wear. Stress fractures on the wood. Silver has vintage unrestored patina.
Overall good condition. Firm and sturdy.
Curated by AMBIANIC
Overall good condition. Firm and sturdy.
Curated by AMBIANIC
Buyer's Premium
20%
William Spratling Octagonal Wood Silver Dish Mid-Century Mexican Modernism
Estimate $730-$2,180
Starting Price
$440
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Heritage & Home: Antiques & Design Classics I
May 15, 2026 6:00 PM EDTNew York, NY, United States
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