Hopi Guild Mudhead Pin by Leroy Kewanyama [SOLD]

The Hopi overlay technique was developed shortly before World War II by two Hopi silversmiths, Paul Saufkie and Fred Kabotie who were working at the Museum of Northern Arizona in Flagstaff, Arizona. After the war a silversmith training program was initiated by the Hopi Guild to teach this exclusive Hopi silversmithing style. The Hopi overlay technique consisted of cutting and shaping designs and then overlaying them on solid silver bottom sheet. The designs were derived from Hopi pottery designs and kachina motifs. This pin is of a Hopi Mudhead. Artists who worked at the Hopi Guild signed the Guild hallmark. This piece has both the Guild hallmark and the hallmark of artist Leroy Kewanyama. Kewanyama's hallmark is directly under the clasp.

It is in excellent condition. It is a highly collectable piece as well as a very charming piece of jewelry.