Phillip Sekaquaptewa Hopi Overlay Bracelet [SOLD]

Turquoise and lapis gemstones are set into the mosaic center of this Hopi overlay bracelet. Flowing Hopi water designs and the mythic flute player Kokopelli rest on either side of the center section of this both traditional and contemporary Hopi bracelet made by award-winning Hopi silversmith Phillip Sekaquaptewa. The artist used traditional Hopi overlay technique on a heavy-gauge silver cuff that tapers from 1⅛” to ¾” from one side to the other. He then added a modern mosaic centerpiece composed of small sections of lapis and turquoise, each with varying texture and color. 

Phil Sekaquaptewa (1948-2003) Weseoma was born on Second Mesa on the Hopi Reservation.  He was the son of Wayne Sekaquaptewa and the nephew of Emory Sekaquaptewa, the founders of Hopicrafts Studio on Hopi’s Third Mesa. It was here that Phillip was trained in the art of traditional Hopi silver overlay technique. He graduated from Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff and received a master’s degree from the University of Arizona. Phillip’s creativity and innovation in jewelry making resulted in prize-winning pieces that paired mosaic stonework and Hopi overlay.  He was the recipient of numerous awards, and his work is featured in the book The Art of the Hopi by Jerry Jacka. 

The bracelet is part of a collection from the estate of Marvin and Betty Rubin. Marvin kept detailed records of his purchases, including biographies and receipts.  Included in these records is a pamphlet with a biography of Phillip with the following information: “Phillip Sekaquaptewa, a contemporary Hopi silversmith carries into the present generation the legacy of distinguished Hopi Leadership.  His name, Sekaquaptewa, refers to the yellow ruff around the neck of the fox”. Mr. Rubin’s records for this transaction show it was purchased directly from the artist in 1988.  The bracelet is signed on the inside with Sekaquaptewa’s hallmark, which contains his initials P and S along with a set of geometric lines. There are two small, drilled holes on ends of the cuff, which at one time held a security chain.

Condition: excellent

Provenance: this Phillip Sekaquaptewa Hopi Overlay Bracelet is from the estate of Marvin and Betty Rubin

Recommended Reading: Art of the Hopi: Contemporary Journeys on Ancient Pathways by Jerry Jacka

Relative Links: Hopi Pueblo, Southwest Indian Jewelry, Phillip Sekaquaptewa, Hopi Pueblo Jeweler

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