Hopi Pueblo Overlay Style Concho Belt by Unknown Silversmith

Six pairs of rotationally symmetrical conchas comprise this Hopi overlay style belt made by an unknown silversmith. The unknown artist fashioned each concha with geometric patterns in the center resembling a maze and a stepped terrace. Framing the center design are two bands, one scalloped, and a shorter plain one. When paired together, each intricately decorated set resembles a butterfly. The silver buckle is rectangularly shaped with similar motifs.

The conchas are all securely fastened to a ⅞” black leather belt. The contrast between the black belt and the silver conchas with a black oxidized background is stunning. It is both feminine and bold at the same time. The silver concho belt is unsigned and dates from the last quarter of the 20th Century.

Condition: this belt is in exceptionally good condition. The leather is smooth, the conchas show slight signs of wear.

Provenance: this Hopi Pueblo Overlay Style Concho Belt by Unknown Silversmith is from a gentleman collector in Colorado

Recommended Reading: Southwest Silver Jewelry by Paula Baker

Relative Links: Hopi Pueblo, buckle, Diné of the Navajo Nation, Concha - Concho Belt