Zuni Pueblo Stone-to-stone Knifewing Pin/Pendant [SOLD]

Zuni Pueblo artisans are known worldwide as phenomenal lapidary artisans and jewelry makers.  They are masters at cutting stones and fitting those stone-to-stone to form mosaic imagery in jewelry.  This pin/pendant Knifewing is an excellent example of the finest lapidary work from Zuni.  It was purchased by the current owner at a store near the plaza in Santa Fe in the 1970s.  She does not remember the name of the shop but that it was one of the finest stores of the time.

It is quite likely that the pin/pendant is pre-1950s but that cannot be determined factually.  It appears to be of that vintage and of the quality of jewelry of that period. 

Along with the Zuni Rainbow Man, the Zuni Knifewing was a popular design used by Zuni jewelers beginning in the 1930s. The Knifewing is a supernatural being for the Zuni people. For public use, its design was probably altered in order not to offend traditional Zuni people. This pin is a good example of the craft of Zuni multi-stone inlay. Each small piece is perfectly placed to create a miniature work of art.

Condition: original condition

Provenance: from the collection of a client from Indiana

Recommended Reading:  North American Indian Jewelry and Adornment from Prehistory to the Present Concise Edition by Lois Sherr Dubin