Joe Calafato: a late twentieth century South African precious metal artist

Abstract

Thirteen semi-structured interviews with colleagues and some family members of Joe Calafato (1912-1991) were conducted in order to compose a systematic profi le of his contributions to the development of precious metal artistry in South Africa between 1947 and 1984. This information was integrated with available archival documentation, a sketch book, order books, an autograph book and newspaper reports along with photographs of his work in private collections. Whereas specific attention is paid to his jewellery products, other lines of design in which he worked are also recognised. The development in his designs from Western oriented motifs to South African inspired designs is also highlighted.

Key words: goldsmith; Joe Calafato; manufacturing jeweller; precious metal artist; Pretoria; silversmith.