Robert and Bernice Leekya Zuni Turquoise and Silver Bolo Tie [SOLD]

Husband and wife worked together to use their creative inheritance in manifesting this superb bolo tie.  A silver back was formed and ridged with a thick framing of silver which was then stamped to appear as if it twists on either side.  Very interesting stamping was used on the interior, making it look like silver mesh, when in reality small squares were impressed into the silver on both the top and bottom of the turquoise. 

A large and impressive piece of turquoise was selected, as the artists are known for their quality of choice in this way.  The turquoise was set into a serrated bezel and framed on either side by a silver appliqué fan of leaf-like elements, shaped into a rectangle and holding fast to the gemstone it guards.  

The typical beads that finish the ends of the leather braided tie elements were made to be quite different from the rest.  Conical silver beads expand into circles at the base and are affixed with two more matching turquoise creations.  As beautiful as these are they could easily have been made into earrings, and it is special the artists choose to take so much care in creating this aspect of the bolo tie.    

Robert (1934-) and Bernice (ca.1920-) Leekya are from Zuni Pueblo and have been making jewelry since 1953.  Robert is the son of famous fetish carver Leekya Deyuse and learned his craft from his father as a young man.  Husband and wife are known for their bold turquoise nugget jewelry and channel inlay.

Condition: This bolo tie is in very good condition

Provenance: This Robert and Bernice Leekya Zuni Turquoise and Silver Bolo Tie is from an estate in eastern Washington. 

Recommended Reading: American Indian Jewelry II: A-L 1,800 Artist Biographies by Gregory Schaaf

Relative Links: Zuni Pueblo, Teddy Weahkee, John Adair, Hawikuh, Southwest Indian Jewelry, Leekya Deyuse, Robert and Bernice Leekya, Zuni Pueblo Jewelers