Frederick Walter Davis was a prominent figure in the Mexican silver renaissance of the twentieth century. His fascination with Mesoamerican art is evident in the design of this bracelet, which is based on a pre-Columbian clay stamp with a swirl glyph motif (see, e.g., M.86.311.13). In ancient times, stamps were used to embellish pottery, textiles, and even the body. Following Davis’s innovative designs, Mesoamerican clay stamps became an important source of inspiration for other designers such as William Spratling (1900–1967; see M.2012.189.4).
Born in Illinois, Davis arrived in Mexico in 1899. He first worked as a clerk for the Sonora News Company, selling newspapers, novelties, and an assortment of Mexican goods along train lines between Mexico and the United States. He became manager of the company’s location in Mexico City, which grew to sell fine art, craftwork, and furnishings. When the Sonora News Company folded in the late 1920s, Davis took over the store as his own enterprise and began producing and selling silver jewelry. His gallery was a destination for collectors from Mexico and the U.S., before he expanded and moved his showroom to Sanborns department store.
Rachel Kaplan
2024
