REBAGES Modernist Style Copper Necklace - 1950s - 17 in long x 1 1/4 in

Francisco Rebajes Vintage Copper Choker Necklace - Original Copper Design from the 50s. 17 inches long x 1 1/4 inches. 2 layers where the polished top is shadowed by the oxidized bottom layer. Signature hook clasp. A one-of-a-kind, cast copper link necklace by Dominican Republic native, Francisco Rebajes (1907-1990). The modernist necklace is typical of Rebajes' interest in abstraction and surrealism. He was among the FIRST craft jewelers in Greenwich Village, New York City. In the 1950's, Rebajes opened a "modernist" store in 5th Avenue at 37th street. This store was elaborate and modern in design. During this era and into the 60s, his wearable art with copper and silver became popular. In addition to jewelry he sculpted many other forms of art. He is now recognized as one of the founders of the American Wearable Art Movement, an important movement in the history of American art that includes other very important artists like Sam Kramer, Art Smith, and Paul Lobel, who's studios were steps away from Franks. This isn’t just a necklace but a piece of art. Examples of Rebajes' work are in the permanent collection of the Cooper-Hewitt Museum, New York.