A fashion historian's paradise, this brand new museum (opened May 2008) showcases the private collection of Federico Belber Jimenez, a Mixtec Indian born in poverty who beat the odds and went on to become a jewelry designer in the U.S.A. Jimenez has built up an impressive collection of exquisite baubles from pre-Columbian times to the early 20th century, featuring an ABC of semi-precious stones. The star of the collection is undoubtedly the necklace worn by Frida Kahlo when she died, given to her by Diego Rivera and inscribed with "Te quiero, Sapo" (I love you, Toad). Also featured in separate rooms are traditional oaxaqueño hats, bizarre ornaments carved by prisoners out of coconuts, pottery and colorful sarapes. An English guidebook is available which describes the background of each exhibit, and there’s a small gift shop.

Location:
Matamoros 307 (corner of Tinoco y Palacios), Centro Historico, Oaxaca

Mexico

Museum Types:
Cultural

Price Description: Free

Open Hours from:Monday-Fri 10.00-14.00 and 16.00-18.00. Saturday 10.00-14.00

Days Closed:Sunday

Travel Skills: None

Contact Information:
Zip: 68000
Phone: 51 450 95

By Lisa Rodan

Created: 14 Nov 2008

Updated: 14 Nov 2008