Base, bezels and ornamentation are fabricated of sheet and wire rolled and drawn from ingot sterling. A commercial pin with safety catch of sterling was furnished for the back.
Natural blue turquoise, white pearl shell, jet and orange spiney oyster shell were meticulously cut and fit to create the mosaic for each fitted bezel section of the Rainbow God's form. Colors of these stone and shell pieces represent the blue, white, black and red of the sacred four directions. His body presents a curved "rainbow", with arms up and knees bent. He appears to dance.
Description | Base, bezels and ornamentation are fabricated of sheet and wire rolled and drawn from ingot sterling. A commercial pin with safety catch of sterling was furnished for the back. Natural blue turquoise, white pearl shell, jet and orange spiney oyster shell were meticulously cut and fit to create the mosaic for each fitted bezel section of the Rainbow God's form. Colors of these stone and shell pieces represent the blue, white, black and red of the sacred four directions. His body presents a curved "rainbow", with arms up and knees bent. He appears to dance. |
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About the Artist | The best book to explain the steps in creating Zuni cluster jewelry is Oscar Branson's Indian Jewelry Making. Volume II. Look at page 48 illustrating each step to create a cluster bracelet. |
Culture | American Indian, Zuni |
Style | Symbolism |
Medium | Ingot sterling silver with turquoise, spiney oyster shell, pearl shell & jet |
Troy ounces | .40 troy ounces |
Size | 2 1/4" height X 1 1/4" width |
Date of creation | 1930's |
Condition | Excellent |
Turquoise | Natural turquoise |
Description | Besides being a bringer of rain, the Rainbow God represents prosperity brought by rain and life itself ! |
Provenance | B Nib |
Gram weight | 11.5 grams |