Adobe Gallery Blog
Navajo Silver and Turquoise Bracelet with Button and Repoussé - C3864.10
The unknown artist who created this Silver and Turquoise Bracelet with Button and Repoussé innovatively added a button to where a stone usually would be placed. Perhaps he wanted to repurpose a single button, or perhaps he had no more larger stones. Whatever the reason, this button bracelet is unique. The sides feature all the characteristics of Fred Harvey style jewelry; geometric stamping in addition to repoussé diamonds. It is the button which makes it exceptional. I like to think it is an early example of Native American repurposing.
The Fred Harvey Company had anthropologists on its staff to consult with Native American artists to design quality souvenirs and provide tourists with an "Authentic Southwest Experience." Perhaps this artisan expressed his individuality in the creation of this bracelet.