Zuni Pueblo Multi-stone Inlay Rainbow Man Jewelry Pin [SOLD]

C4310D-rainbow.jpg

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Jeweler Once Known
  • Category: Pins
  • Origin: Zuni Pueblo, SHE-WE-NA
  • Medium:
    Silver, Turquoise, Jet, Mother of Pearl, Spondylus Shell
  • Size: 2-½” x 2-¼”
  • Item # C4310D
  • SOLD

This Zuni Pueblo pin features meticulously cut and shaped sections of turquoise, jet, Spondylus shell and Mother-of Pearl that were then set together to depict a Zuni Rainbow Man. Flawlessly fashioned sections of gemstone and shell were assembled to represent the kilt, body and headdress of the Zuni guardian spirit. The stones were mounted on a silver platform and framed with a series of silver drops.

The Rainbow Man, or “Rainbow Dancer”, was one of the first figures designed by Zuni artisans making mosaic jewelry.  Beginning in the 1920s, traders at Zuni Pueblo encouraged artists to use mosaic inlay to create items that would appeal to tourists. Oftentimes, Zuni lapidary artists would cut and shape the stones. Then, the work was given to Diné silversmiths to be set in silver. 

The Zuni Rainbow Man became one of the most popular Zuni inlay jewelry items for collectors. The setting of multi-hued stones on the figure symbolizes the rainbow, representing the blessings of rain—the essential element for life in the dry Southwest. It is also viewed as a symbol of protection. 


Condition: The Zuni Pueblo Multi-stone Inlay Rainbow Man Jewelry Pin is in excellent condition. 

Provenance: From the collection of a Santa Fe resident

Recommended Reading: Contemporary Southwestern Jewelry by Diana Pardue

Relative Links: Southwest Indian JewelryZuni Pueblo

Jeweler Once Known
  • Category: Pins
  • Origin: Zuni Pueblo, SHE-WE-NA
  • Medium:
    Silver, Turquoise, Jet, Mother of Pearl, Spondylus Shell
  • Size: 2-½” x 2-¼”
  • Item # C4310D
  • SOLD

C4310D-rainbow.jpgC4310D-large.jpg Click on image to view larger.