Mid-century Francisco Rebajes African Ubangi Tribe Copper Dish c.1940-1950
ABOUT
A mid-century copper trinket dish designed by Francisco Rebajes using his iconic African Ubangi tribe member and necklace motive. Stamped "Rebajes".
- CREATOR Francisco Rebajes.
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DATE OF MANUFACTURE c.1940-1950.
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MATERIALS AND TECHNIQUES Copper.
- CONDITION Good. Wear consistent with age and use.
- DIMENSIONS H 5 in. W 7 in. D 7 in.
HISTORY
"Francisco Rebajes (1905-1990)
He was among the first craft jewelers in Greenwich Village, New York City. Rebajes came to New York in 1922 from his native Dominican Republic at the age of 16. Knowing little English, he found a way to support himself working in cafeterias. In 1932, Francisco married Pauline Schwartz. Still without money, he and Pauline were given shelter, in a basement, from a kind friend. Here is where Rebajes used an old set of plumbers' tools to create a collection of animals from tin cans. Those sculptures were then exhibited on an ironing board at the first Washington Square outdoor show. The result of this showing ended with the director of the Whitney Museum, Juliana Force, buying all of the pieces Rebajes created. Next spawning Rebajes' first store on 182 W. 4th Street in Greenwich Village. With gaining success and popularity in the 1950's, Rebajes opened a modern store in 5th Avenue at 37th street.
