William Spratling (1900 - 1967) began his career as an artist, architect, and professor at the School of Architecture at Tulane University. After spending summers in Mexico and lecturing at the National University, he moved to Taxco permanently in 1929 and set up a small silver studio. As he integrated himself into the local arts community, befriending artists like Diego Rivera, Spratling was inspired by Pre-Columbian Mexican art, Aztec designs, and ranchero motifs and incorporated them into his work. By 1940, he employed over 300 artisans, and had set up an apprenticeship program with silversmiths from his workshop going on to set up their own shops throughout Mexico.