Showrooms

Zuni channel inlaid long-horn katsina (Saiyatasha)

Offered by: Marcy Burns American Indian Arts LLC

Description
The Zunis developed channel-inlay jewelry beginning in 1929, according to Paula Baxter in Southwest Silver Jewelry (Schiffer Publishing Co, Atglen, PA, 2001), p. 29. Zuni lapidaries and silversmiths rapidly developed these techniques throughout the 1930s-1940s and Zuni channel work is readily available in contemporary Zuni jewelry.

This example depicts a Zuni long-horn katsina. It is beautifully made, with high-quality stones cut to fit precisely within the silver channels. There is wonderful wear on the silver trim edging which was clearly skillfully made. The long-haired katsina image is rarely depicted, making this pin rare.

While the Zuni had their own silversmiths, a piece such as this, with high quality stones, lapidary work, and quality silver work was likely the result of collaboration between a Zuni artist and a Navajo silversmith who came to Zuni. This pin most likely dates to the 1930s. Each silver bead along the edge was individually made and then soldered onto the pin, something that happened more frequently in the 1930s. By the 1940s, the Zuni silversmiths began to form the beads out of the same silver as the piece of silver it rests on. If you look closely at the base below the collar of the katsina, you will see that each crescent is hand-stamped. and you will see wear on the silver beading.

The minor and very tiny chips in the stones and stable crack above the eye are evidence of it having been worn and appreciated. These are compensated by the rarity and quality of the piece. Collectors like to see evidence of use and wear.

More Information

Origin:	United States, New Mexico
Period:	1900-1949
Materials:	channel inlaid sterling silver, turquoise, onyx, mother of pearl and spiny oyster
Condition:	New. Excellent condition for a pin of this age with wonderful wear, a few tiny chips to stones and stable hair line fracture
Creation Date:	1930-1940
Styles / Movements:	Other, American Indian
Dealer Reference #:	J2208
Incollect Reference #:	414110

Dimensions

W.	1.0625 in;	H.	2.375 in;
W.	2.7 cm;	H.	6.03 cm;

Message from Seller:

Marcy Burns American Indian Arts LLC, located at 520 East 72nd Street in New York City, specializes in antique American Indian basketry, textiles, pottery, and jewelry, including Native American and Classic Designer pieces from Taxco, Mexico. With over 30 years of experience, Marcy Burns offers expert consultation, appraisals, and full warranties on the objects it sells. Reach them at 212-439-9257 or info@marcyburns.com.