!Best! Zuni Early Iinlaid Thunderbird Knifewing Bird Pin Channel & Mosaic Inlay

Description

Welcome!
WHAT IS GREAT ABOUT IT: This is one of the most unique and most beautiful pins I've possibly ever owned. I truly am astounded by its importance and beauty. It was made in the very early part of the past century, at a time it was difficult to obtain materials. This master artist used natural red abalone shell, natural jet, natural turquoise, natural mother of pearl and an early yellow plastic, of the sort used in the depression era! The inlay is primarily channel inlay, partly mosaic inlay and was done with raised rounded shaped stones primarily, but flat mother of pearl and yellow plastic and some bits of flat turquoise inlaid with with the yellow plastic in the trim of the skirt. Everything was precisely determined from an aesthetic point of view and the inlay is perfection, with no gaps in the mosaic and channel inlay and a variety of styles and skills displayed. It is so breathtaking, the more I look, the more I gasp! This thunderbird or knifewing bird wears a belt for seed distribution like the rainbowmen wear. He is a warm and loving bird with a prominent crest. The stamped raindrops which adorn him are fabulous, too. This was done by a great Zuni master silversmith of the early CG Wallace period. Certainly one of the best in all Zuni history. The aesthetics are the best and the colors sing! It embodies impeccable work and exquisite coloration.
CONDITION: superb vintage, wearable and collectible, with minor age related wear. We can see one of the turquoise fish scales has some loss, I've seen no other issues.
MEASUREMENTS:
• dimensions 2-1/4" high x 2" wide
• weight 12.44 grams
• as is usual, unmarked for metal content but tests as sterling silver at .925 and would be no less than coin at .900
• unmarked by artist as is usual for that period of time, and while artist is unknown, the tribe is Zuni
SUMMARY: I can't imagine a better masterpiece for any collection than this work of early art. We don't find many Zuni early fabulous pins with some plastic: I've had one other only. This useage of the yellow plastic works perfectly on the beak and the trimming of the skirt. I adore it! The raised rounded turquoise inlay, the intense color play and perfection of all the inlay and silver work, with the wonderful stamped raindrops, every single aspect is uniquely gorgeous to this work of art and absolute perfection. It is museum worthy, most suitable for any best collection or for if you want to start any collection you can't do better than right here. You'll never be sorry you have this! It's perfection.
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Returns will be accepted for 30 days after your receipt for any reason and without question. Please let me know if you would like to return something. Returns must be in the same condition they were shipped. If I make a significant mistake in a listing I'll always give you a full refund. The 20% restocking fee does not apply when the mistake is mine. I care that you're happy and about my accuracy, and will always stand behind my work. My attributions are guaranteed for my lifetime.
When I include pages from published books in my listings it is in accordance with Fair Use Law, which permits the use of source material for discussion, reference, education and criticism.
Attributions on many of the old pieces of Native American jewelry are sometimes a moving target. All the books have errors, so in addition to counterchecking, I have developed some expertise over the years and I do care about getting it right, so as more information comes to light I update my listings and also get in touch with my previous buyers, to inform them of any changes in attributions. I am sincerely committed to ongoing accuracy.
Everything I sell comes from my personal collection or is something that I would include in my personal collection. Most pieces are museum worthy and gallery suitable, sold to you at great pricing. I vet every item carefully for quality and condition, and offer you the best. I want you to be able to rely on me for top quality, superb items that are often unique and rare examples of old antique vintage southwest, indian, native american and fine gold and gemstones, whether you're starting a collection or adding to one, or want something great to wear or gift. My goal is that all my buyers are delighted, that my special pieces find the right homes.