Diné (Navajo) Sterling Silver Tobacco Canteen with Turquoise [SOLD]

Silversmithing among the Navajo began sometime in the mid-1800s, possibly during the time of their internment at Bosque Redondo in southern New Mexico. The early days of silversmithing consisted of jewelry items such as bracelets, necklaces and earrings, and the source of silver was most often Mexican silver coins.

By the beginning of the 20th century, ingot silver and then sheet silver became the source of raw materials, and the demands of the buying public became the inspiration for ideas. In addition to making jewelry, the Navajo expanded into more elaborated items such as horse bridles and ketohs (arm bands) for bow hunting. Eventually, they ventured into making flatware, dishes, serving wares, and such things as silver boxes and desk sets.

One of the things primarily made for their own use were tobacco canteens or flasks. They were generally made by attaching two domed stamped silver concha-shaped discs together and attaching a lidded spout, as was this one. Sometimes, turquoise pieces were added.

This flask has a small beautiful blue turquoise cabochon at the center on front and back. The stamping consists of radial lines from the center. A handmade silver chain secures the canteen stopper.  The weight of this flask would indicate that it was made from ingot silver.

Condition: very good condition

Provenance:  from the collection of a Santa Fe family

Recommended Reading:  Masterworks and Eccentricities: The Druckman Collection; Navajo and Pueblo Jewelry and Metalwork 1880-1950 by Robert Bauver