This solid copper vintage brooch is a unique Aztec warrior motif most people mistake for Oriental but it is not. All Kim signed copper jewelry mask motifs were Aztec or Mayan, except for the comedy/tragedy motif she copied from Renoir.
I do not consider all of Kim signed copper jewelry to be highly collectible. She copied other designers very clearly, such as Renoir and Rebajes. But the designs she made that were desert southwest motifs and Aztec or Mayan masks: those were unique designs that are admirable and valuable if in superb condition.
Over the past 40 years Ive collected many pieces of signed KIM copper jewelry but this one is signed with a patent number. The KIM mark was first used in 1952. The patent 2383012 on this pin was applied for in 1943 and granted in 1945, to Eugene Morehouse of B.A. Ballou Co in Providence, RI. So, now we know that Kim used findings from B.A. Ballou on her earliest pieces.
This oval thick copper pin has a crimped edge and the Aztec warrior is a full 3D copper relief. The warrior face is not exactly centered as its just how the piece was made. This pin is in mint condition and looks like new. I've had it stored away for over 40 years and it is mint like the day it was made. The copper is bright and shiny both front and back with no scratches, scuffs, or dings.
The pin measures 1 7/8" tall x 1 3/8" wide, or 4.5 cm x 3.3 cm. The back has the original fine working safety clasp, the KIM signature, and the patent number. Comes gift wrapped and shipped in a new presentation jewelry box.
* ou can add a gold brooch slider to convert this pin to a pendant by checking the option box.
