Arthur Begaye Reversible Silver and Multistone Inlay Pendant

Lapis, turquoise, coral and sugilite gemstones were cut and set onto each side of this arrow-shaped pendant by Diné of the Navajo Nation artist Arthur Begaye. On one face of the pendant, a triangle mosaic consisting of sugilite, coral, and white shell was set opposite a raised silver lightning bolt and a masked face on a textured silver surface. The reverse side contains a mosaic of lapis, coral, and turquoise facing an abstract feather design of polished raised silver. The pendant is a tableau of contrasts; the polished silver elements against the rough textured surface and the various colored gemstones set adjacent to one another. 

The pendant was purchased in 1995 at the Gallup Inter-tribal Indian Ceremonial by Marvin and Betty Rubin. The Rubins kept detailed records of the provenance of their collection. The records for this piece indicate the artist as Arthur Begaye. Reference books indicate that there is an Arthur Begaye who is a Diné painter, but we have been unable to find any information indicating he made jewelry. The pendant has no hallmark and so the only way to assign a maker to this piece is by Marvin Rubin's detailed paperwork.

Condition: this Arthur Begaye Reversible Silver and Multistone Inlay Pendant is  is in very good condition. 

Provenance: from the estate of Marvin and Betty Rubin of Albuquerque

Recommended Reading: ENDURING TRADITIONS Art of the Navajo by Lois Essary Jacka

Reative Links: SOUTHWEST INDIAN JEWELRY, Navajo Nation, Arthur Begaye, Diné Silversmith