The shield-shaped sunface motif slide is a tufa casting. This method requires the artist to carve the subject image in reverse, creating a two part mold into which molten silver is poured and allowed to cool. This tufa casting required a signature mark to be carved and matched, or aligned, with the image half.
Ric Charlie cuts marks in these stone halves, so they can be matched perfectly before being wired together for the pour. After being pulled, the casting is detailed by hand, using saws, files of various tooth and sanding papers or wheels. Serious polishing is done to bring out depth and texture. In this case, background was oxidized to enhance its dramatic effect.
Jet was cut and flush inlaid for the eyes and turquoise for the mouth. A clear, red enamel was applied to the lower face, giving the sunface distinct and separate life from its background.
Description | The shield-shaped sunface motif slide is a tufa casting. This method requires the artist to carve the subject image in reverse, creating a two part mold into which molten silver is poured and allowed to cool. This tufa casting required a signature mark to be carved and matched, or aligned, with the image half. Ric Charlie cuts marks in these stone halves, so they can be matched perfectly before being wired together for the pour. After being pulled, the casting is detailed by hand, using saws, files of various tooth and sanding papers or wheels. Serious polishing is done to bring out depth and texture. In this case, background was oxidized to enhance its dramatic effect. Jet was cut and flush inlaid for the eyes and turquoise for the mouth. A clear, red enamel was applied to the lower face, giving the sunface distinct and separate life from its background. |
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About the Artist | (Born 1959, Navajo) An Arizona resident, Richard Charlie is a member of the Edgewater Clan. In 1983 Charlie was awarded Best of Division, Best of Class and received a special award at the Southwestern Association of American Indian Arts competition. Charlie's tradition of receiving awards for his jewelry continues. Every major publication addressing American Indian jewelry covers Mr. Charlie's creations. The artist's statements in metal tend to be contemporary. He also fashions sculpture and paintings. |
Culture | American Indian, Navajo |
Medium | Sterling silver, jet, turquoise and clear red enamel, black leather |
Size | The shield is 2 3/16" X 1 7/8". Tips are 3" in length X 1/4" at top. Overall length of strap is a bit over 46" including tips. |
Signed | R inside circular line, as part of casting |
Date of creation | Late 20th century |
Condition | Excellent |
Description | The extreme tip points are like shafts of light. They were fabricated from mill rolled silver sheet, cut on a pattern, formed and soldered. The seam is so well finished, it takes a loup to find ! The black leather "tie" is entirely hand braided and securely sewn to its collar back, sliding nicely, the figure eight shield back made of heavy gauge drawn wire, adjustable if needed. |
Provenance | LF |