Early Sterling Silver ‘Candida’ Brooch

This very charming, large, South African, sterling silver brooch is in the form of a seated, chubby Mexican and a reluctant donkey, which has a bucket hanging from his side (the bucket is a separate fitted piece.) The brooch is in relief, with amazing detail and is in excellent condition. It is stamped on the back ‘CANDIDA’ ‘STERLING SILVER’. This was the factory mark used by ‘Joe Calafato’, a South African creative jeweller and silversmith, who was active between 1947 and 1984. This particular brooch was made between 1947 and 1951. It measures 5cm x 3.5cm and has a lovely weight and feel to it.