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Description:Overview:
Presenting an exceptional, highly collectible pair of authentic mid-century modernist cufflinks by the pioneering American jeweler Winifred Mason Chenet (1912–1993). Crafted during her celebrated \"chenet d\'HAITI\" period (circa late 1940s to 1950s), these hand-wrought pieces are a remarkable blend of Black Americana heritage and Haitian Vodou iconography.
Winifred Mason is historicized as the first commercially successful Black female jeweler in the United States, famously mentoring Art Smith and designing custom jewelry for cultural icons like Billie Holiday. Today, her rare pieces are held in the permanent collections of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) and the Brooklyn Museum.
Design & Symbolism:
This matched pair features her iconic abstract, relief-carved representation of Damballah Wedo—the sacred Voodoo serpent spirit of creation, cosmic wisdom, and protection. True to her signature artisanal studio execution, the stylized silver serpents twist fluidly against a starkly contrasting, darkened, and stippled background disc.
Hallmarks & Authentication:
• Reverse Marks: Both cufflinks are crisp and clearly stamped with the individual hand-punched workshop signature: \"chenet d\'HAITI\".
• Mechanics: The brass-toned toggle back findings are stamped \"PAT. PEND.\", firmly dating the construction of this pair to the prime 1950s mid-century era.
• Weight: An incredibly substantial and heavy-gauge pair, weighing a combined 27 grams (~13.5g per cufflink), confirming the dense, high-quality material execution typical of premium studio art jewelry from this period.
Condition:
Excellent vintage condition with a gorgeous, undisturbed aged patina. The intentional oxidation in the recessed areas remains beautifully intact, highlighting the modernist line work. The mechanical toggles are strong, secure, and fully Total Weight: 27 grams
• Hallmarks: \"chenet d’HAITI\", \"PAT. PEND.\"
• Era: Mid-Century Modern (circa 1950s)
