Rotating Pendant with Knife Wing and Rainbow Man

This reversible pendant is the work of Fred and Lolita Natachu from Zuni Pueblo. One side features a Knife Wing design, while the other showcases a Rainbow Man, both rendered with meticulous precision in a variety of gemstones. A border of intricate stampwork frames each design, adding an elegant touch to this remarkable piece.

The pendant is ingeniously designed to spin within a circular silver frame, allowing the wearer to easily switch between the Knife Wing and Rainbow Man. This dynamic feature transforms the pendant into a versatile and interactive piece of wearable art.

Zuni artists Fred and Lolita Natachu are renowned for their exceptional mosaic and channel inlay work. Among their favorite subjects are Rainbow Man and Knife Wing, both of which are beautifully captured in their designs. The Natachus have been crafting jewelry since the 1970s. Lolita, the daughter of esteemed Zuni silversmith Jacob Haloo, comes from a family of talented artisans. Her sisters—Dolly Banteah, Nancy Lacnsello, and Rolanda Haloo—are also well-respected Zuni inlay silversmiths.

This piece is inscribed with FL Natachu inside the frame, marking it as an authentic original creation by this talented couple.

Condition: excellent condition

Provenance: this Rotating Pendant with Knife Wing and Rainbow Man is from a private collection

Recommended Reading: Navajo Jewelry: A Legacy of Silver and Stone by Lois Jacka, et al.

TAGS: Zuni Pueblo, Southwest Indian Jewelry, Rolanda Haloo, Fred and Lolita Natachu