Southwest Indian Jewelry Bracelets Hopi Pueblo, Hopituh Shi-nu-mu

Hopi Overlay Bracelet with Feather Motifs [SOLD]

Category: Bracelets
Origin: Hopi Pueblo, Hopituh Shi-nu-mu
Medium: sterling silver
Size: 5 ¾” end to end;
1” opening; 1” wide
Wrist Size 6 ¾
Item # C4751F

SOLD

Two overlay feather designs adorn this classic late 20th century Hopi cuff. In traditional Hopi manner, the artist skillfully cut out two feathers designs on the top layer and placed that on top of a texturized and oxidized bottom layer. The contrast between the black oxidized layer and the polished top is striking. The bracelet is of a heavy gauge and has a substantial feel.

The bracelet has a hallmark of what could be interpreted as mountains and a star, but we have been unable to ascertain who the artist is. Before the1930s, Hopi Pueblo jewelry was similar in style to jewelry made by Navajo and Zuni Pueblo artisans. It wasn't until after World War II that a training program for Hopi veterans changed that. The program offered classes in jewelry making. Paul Saufkie was the technical director and Fred Kabotie was the director of design. With the intention of creating a unique Hopi jewelry style, the overlay technique was developed and refined. This technique requires cutting a design out of one piece of silver and overlaying it on another oxidized piece. Today Hopi overlay is the traditional Hopi style of jewelry. Mary Russell Colton, the curator of the Museum of Northern Arizona suggested that the Hopi artists use ancient pottery, basket, and textile designs to create a style that was uniquely Hopi.