Southwest Indian Jewelry Diné of the Navajo Nation Belts and Buckles

Sterling Silver Buckle with Bear and Sun Design by Joe Willeto

Joe Willeto, Diné of the Navajo Nation Jeweler

Category: Belts and Buckles
Origin: Diné of the Navajo Nation
Medium: sterling silver
Size: 2” x 3”;
1-1/2” belt width
Item # C4946.23
Price: $900

This striking sterling silver buckle, created in 1990, features a powerful, stylized bear superimposed with a sun face. Sun rays fan out from the bear in all four directions, giving the design a dramatic flair. Both the bear and the sun face are finished with a beautiful, velvet-like surface that catches the light and sparkles.

This piece was created by Navajo silversmith Joe Willeto, whose full name and a feather hallmark are stamped on the back, along with "sterling."

Willeto has been an active silversmith since 1966, beginning his career with the Bilagaanas Company in Albuquerque right after graduating from Albuquerque High School. He is a consistent award-winner, having garnered 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place awards at the prestigious New Mexico State Fair.

Condition: excellent condition with minor scratches as expected

Provenance: from the estate of a long-time Adobe Gallery client.

Biographical Reference: American Indian Jewelry III: M-Z, 2,100 Artist Biographies by Gregory Schaaf

TAGS: Southwest Indian Jewelry, Diné of the Navajo Nation, Joe Willeto

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