Navajo Split Shank Cuff with Twelve Bands [SOLD]

This sterling silver contemporary bracelet was made by Diné artist Wilbert Benally in a style popularized by the artists at the White Hogan Gallery of Scottsdale, Arizona in the 1950s and 60s. Inspired by the Danish Modern work of Georg Jenson, Diné artists used traditional Native silversmithing methods to create pieces with a sleek, modern appearance. The style was extremely popular and the gallery and its artists were featured in Life Magazine.

Diné artist Wilbert Benally skillfully created a bracelet in the spirit of the White Hogan silversmiths that features twelve individual bands that have been split apart from the shank. Each band was hand shaped and polished. The twelve bands expand out from a solid shank that features a stamped concha motif. The bracelet is signed “WB” which is the hallmark for Wilbert Benally.

Condition: The bracelet is in very good condition, there is evidence of wear that has softened the feel of the bracelet.

Provenance: The Navajo Split Shank Cuff with Twelve Bands is from an extensive Southwest Indian Jewelry collection in Colorado

Recommended Reading:

- Southwest Silver Jewelry by Paula Baxter

- Navajo Silver: A Brief History of Navajo Silver by Arthur Woodward