Oswaldo Guayasamín pendant with neck ring, Ecuador c 1960s

Oswaldo Guayasamín pendant with neck ring, Ecuador c 1960s

Code: J363

Dimensions:

W: 6.2cm (2.4")L: 8.9cm (3.5")

£875.00 £995.00 plus postage Approx $1103.4, €1021, ¥175000
 

This rare, fabulous handmade pendant is by Ecuadorian artist Oswaldo Guaysamín. Measuring 8.9 x 6.2 cm it's a wonderfully sculptural statement piece, Twelve kinetic circles hang from the horizontal elements of the design and move, catching the light, when worn. It has a plain, fastening neckring (diameter c 12cm) but also looks good on a chain. 

The pendant is in excellent vintage condition with only minor signs of use. The back is stamped with 'Guyasamin' in script and this shows through faintly on the front (see photos). The neckring isn't completely round but this isn't noticeable when worn.

Oswaldo Guayasamín (1919-99) was born in Quito, Ecuador to a poor family. He always loved painting and studied at the Quito Schol of Fine Arts, graduating in art, sculpture and architecture. He had his first exhbition in 1942.

Tragedy and social injustices feature in Guayasamín's art and UNESCO recognised this with a prize for 'an entire life of work for peace'. The artist's last exhibitions were  in the Palais du Luxembourg in Paris, and in the Palais de Glace in Buenos Aires. In Quito, Guayasamín built a museum to feature his work. 

His death was marked by strikes, particulary by the indigenous people of Ecuador. He is still considered to be a national treasure.