Pair of mancerinas; New Spain, late 18th century.

Pair of mancerinas; New Spain, late eighteenth century.
Silver.
They present faults.
Measurements: 5 x 24 cm (x2).
Pair of finely carved silver macerinas, of New Spain or European origin. These pieces present a deeply embossed floral design, with a central structure in the shape of a flower of multiple petals, arranged in different planes to accentuate the decorative volume. The contour of the plate follows a wavy line, also with vegetal motifs that reinforce the naturalistic aesthetic of the whole. The metallic luster, although somewhat softened by the passage of time, reveals the fine work of the silversmith in embossing and chiseling techniques.
This type of work was one of the main sources of export in Spanish America. First as raw material in itself for its high economic value and later and with greater interest for its craftsmanship. Viceroyal works would reach very high levels of fineness and quality worthy of European works. Western tradition was joined by the roots and cultural heritage of the places of work where the artisans displayed great talent both in the execution of the works and in the creation of especially novel and original models and decorations.