Vintage Mariposa Starfish Nesting Bowls Set of 2 Sandcast Aluminum Mexico
A beautiful vintage set of two nesting starfish serving bowls by Mariposa Brillante — handcrafted in Mexico from 100% recycled sandcast aluminum, each piece bearing the authentic oval Mariposa hallmark stamp on the base. The large bowl measures approximately 14 inches point to point; the small, 7 inches — a perfectly proportioned nesting pair with brilliant mirror-polished edges and rims that catch and hold the light with the warm, living quality unique to hand-finished metal. A statement piece for the table, the sideboard, or the wall.
About Mariposa & Sandcast Aluminum
Mariposa is one of the most respected names in American artisan tableware — a brand built on the tradition of Mexican sandcast aluminum, a craft technique in which molten recycled aluminum is poured into hand-packed sand molds to produce objects of extraordinary individuality and surface character. No two sandcast pieces are identical: the sand mold captures the texture and irregularity of the casting process in the surface of the metal itself, giving each object a handmade quality that no industrial process can replicate. The mirror-polished edges and rims of Mariposa pieces — hand-finished to a brilliant reflective shine — are the brand's signature, and the contrast between the polished border and the softer, more textural center well is one of the defining aesthetic qualities of the finest Mariposa work.
Mariposa's commitment to 100% recycled aluminum and Mexican artisan craft has made the brand a touchstone for collectors of sustainable, handmade tableware — and vintage Mariposa pieces, with their authentic hallmarks and genuine craft provenance, are increasingly sought by those who understand the difference between artisan-made and mass-produced.
Details
- Brand: Mariposa Brillante
- Material: 100% recycled sandcast aluminum
- Origin: Mexico
- Large Bowl: Approx. 14 inches point to point
- Small Bowl: Approx. 7 inches point to point
- Hallmark: Authentic Mariposa oval stamp on the base of both pieces
- Care: Hand wash and towel dry immediately — never dishwasher safe
Condition — Sold As-Is
Both bowls retain gorgeous bright reflective shine along the outer edges and rims. Both pieces show noticeable gray pitting, dark spotting, and surface oxidation in the center wells from previous food service and age — please review all close-up photos carefully before purchasing. No structural damage, dents, or warping. An excellent candidate for restoration with aluminum metal polish. Sold as-is and priced accordingly. Please review all high-resolution photos carefully as they form part of the condition description.
Comparable Market Value
$110 — based on current sold listings on eBay and Etsy for vintage Mariposa sandcast aluminum serving bowls in comparable condition, priced accordingly for the center well oxidation noted above.