Sterling Silver and Green Turquoise Letter Opener, circa 1920s [SOLD]

The Whirling Log symbol, often referred to as a Swastika, had a long tradition of use among many Native American tribes before the advent of its use by Hitler in the 1930s.  I am unsure if the United States government forbade its continued use or if the Native tribes discontinued it on their own.  I recall also that the yearbook of New Mexico State University had a row of the symbol on its cover in earlier years.  Of course, it will never again be used on Native art but there are early items still around in which it appears and there are individuals who collect such items because of their historical importance to the art of Natives. 

This small letter opener features the Whirling Log on the handle surrounded by simple stamped designs.  There is a beautiful green oval and domed turquoise cab at the intersection of the handle and blade.  The letter opener dates to circa 1920s.

Condition: very good condition with a few minor scratches

Provenance: from the collection of a gentleman from Colorado

Recommended Reading: an excellent and definitive explanation of the use of the Swastika symbol in Navajo textiles is The Swastika Symbol in Navajo Textiles by Dennis Aigner.