Zuni Pueblo Silver Appliqué Ram Cuff by J. Quam [SOLD]

The artist is somewhat unfamiliar to Adobe Gallery, but we have the privilege of working with a few of his pieces of jewelry.  We believe J. Quam to be Zuni and his work is distinct and radical.  This ram’s head cuff does not diverge from his known body of work and in addition is both dauntless and eye-catching. 

Very strong and almost Norse looking silver appliqué pieces have been added around the edge of the wrist in different ribbons and shapes.  Between these areas two rectangles of both red coral and sky-blue turquoise dot the perimeter which enlarges as it moves toward the ram’s head in stunning pieces of pearl.  Each side is fitted with different presentations of pearl, one side being warm and sunrise-like, while the other is brilliant rainbow white. 

A central ram’s head motif is exquisitely affixed to this cuff.  Layered lattice like sections have been added above and around allowing for a full frame of elevated silver giving the piece depth and texture.  Part of this framing is silver appliqué foliage ornamenting the top and bottom of the ram’s head like a garland.  

The ram’s head itself sits on a very unusual background of silver inside of its bezel.  Most often, one sees a stone in this position, and this is a very creative adaptation.  The ram’s body is fitted from an inlaid, highly polished tiger’s eye while the eyes are glistening abalone.  Carved and textured warm pearl was used for horns making the ram life-like and fierce.  

Although we are unfamiliar with much about the artist, this piece is signed J Quam.  When the “Q” of the hallmark is not in cursive, such as this piece, this refers to J. Quam senior.  Art works signed this way are very much known for large, bold pieces of jewelry featuring much silver bezel work and animal motifs. This work is typical of jewelry made by the Zuni people, of which we believe J. Quam to be.  This particular style of jewelry making typically includes mosaic work with very thin and small portions of stones, with precise inlay and silver bases.

This cuff and a matching belt buckle (our item #C4569C) were made as a pair.  They are being offered separately at this time but may be purchased as a pair.

Condition: the cuff is in overall very good condition. 

Provenance:  This Zuni Pueblo Silver Appliqué Ram Cuff by J. Quam is from an estate in eastern Washington. 

Recommended Reading: Zuni: A Village of Silversmiths by James Ostler

Relative Links: Southwest Indian Jewelry, Zuni Pueblo

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