1205 S Hill Street
Los Angeles, CA 90015
United States
Cain Modern is the source for the elegant and the classic. Our store is a result of a desire to give people with an eye for design the opportunity to purchase mid-century designer pieces that are usually reserved only for the design industry. We source the world for that unique piece which can’t hel...Read more
Two ways to bid:
Price | Bid Increment |
---|---|
$25 | $25 |
$300 | $50 |
$1,000 | $100 |
$2,000 | $200 |
$5,000 | $250 |
$10,000 | $500 |
$32,000 | $1,000 |
$50,000 | $3,000 |
Sep 16, 2025
Striking vintage water pitcher handcrafted in Mexico during the 1960s, featuring an extraordinary surface of meticulously inlaid abalone shell over a sculptural alpaca silver body. The pitcher exhibits a dramatic, organic form with iridescent tones ranging from violet and teal to pearlescent ivory. Raised on rounded tripod legs, the piece is both functional and decorative—a stunning example of mid-century Mexican artistry.
Stamped “Hecho en Mexico” and “Alpaca”, the piece is stylistically aligned with the celebrated works of Los Castillo and other renowned Taxco artisans of the era.
Whether displayed as a centerpiece or used for special occasions, this pitcher commands attention and elevates any collection of Mexican modernism, abalone inlay ware, or mixed-metal decorative arts.
Measurements:
9.25 inches high × 9 inches wide (with handle) × 6.75 inches deep
All items are sold as is. The auction house does not warrant authenticity on any specific piece. THERE ARE NO RETURNS. We can only offer our opinion and the material facts about the item and its condition.
ANY CONDITION STATEMENT IS GIVEN AS A COURTESY TO A CLIENT, IS ONLY AN OPINION AND SHOULD NOT BE TREATED AS A STATEMENT OF FACT. CAIN MODERN AUCTIONS SHALL HAVE NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY ERROR OR OMISSION.
ALL BIDDERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO OBTAIN AS MUCH INFORMATION AS POSSIBLE ABOUT ANY ITEM AND A SHIPPING QUOTE FOR THE ITEM ON WHICH THEY WISH TO BID, BY REQUESTING CONDITION REPORTS AND SHIPPING QUOTES BY EMAIL, OR PREFERABLY, BY PERSONAL INSPECTION.
ALL ITEMS ARE SOLD AS IS WITH NO GUARANTEES OR WARRANTIES STATED OR IMPLIED. IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE BIDDER TO EXAMINE ALL MATERIAL PRIOR TO BIDDING.
NO LOTS CAN BE RETURNED FOR A FULL OR PARTIAL REFUND EITHER BECAUSE BIDDER CHANGED HIS/HER MIND OR BECAUSE SHIPPING IS FOUND TO BE TOO HIGH/EXPENSIVE.
ITEMS NOT PICKED UP AFTER 30 DAYS WILL BE CONSIDERED FORFEITED WITHOUT REFUNDS.
Non of the Electronics or lighting equipment are tested for functionality.
The piece is in used condition, mild nicks, dings, mild oxidation/loss to plating and scratches.
The Condition Report states Cain Modern Auctions reasonable opinion as to the lots general condition in the terms stated in the particular report, and Cain Modern Auctions does not represent or guarantee that a Condition Report includes all aspects of the internal or external condition of the Lot. Cain Modern Auctions does not owe the buyer any obligation to report on the condition of the lot and makes no guarantee the condition will be given for the lot.
Cain Modern Auctions attempts to provide accurate descriptions and images of products online. It is the buyers responsibility to review all of the information provided about a lot before placing a bid. The buyer acknowledges that the products are sold on an the as-is as found basis/condition and all sales are final.
Local pickup is welcomed, please call in advance to setup an appointment and ensure the items are paid for before picking up. For out of state buyers we can provide shipping quotes or provide a list of shippers, we do not pack anything ourselves but we can drop off the pieces to a shipping store such as UPS or FedEx and arrange shipping with freight companies such as Plycon, Craters & Freighters, Tramo, Cube, and others.
Available payment options
Payment Details We accept checks, wire transfers or credit cards. Payment must be made within 5 days after the auction has closed and no pickup arrangements will be made prior to payment. Call Cain Modern Auctions at 310-652-6045 or email cain@cainmodern.com with any questions, concerns or requests.