Silver Overlay Bear Claw Earrings and Necklace SET by Bernard Dawahoya

The bear claw earrings and necklace set by Bernard Dawahoya exemplifies the profound artistry and cultural heritage of the Hopi people. Each piece was crafted with meticulous care, highlighting Dawahoya's masterful skills in silversmithing. The sterling silver bear claw earrings feature intricately carved claws, symbolizing strength, courage, and protection. Lightweight and comfortable, these earrings add a touch of cultural significance and refined elegance to any ensemble.

The matching necklace features a prominent bear claw pendant suspended on a silver chain, mirroring the earrings' design. The pendant's size and intricate detailing make it a bold statement piece, embodying themes of strength and protection. Together, the bear claw earrings and necklace set is a testament to Dawahoya's artistic vision and deep connection to Hopi traditions. This set is a beautiful display of craftsmanship and a wearable piece of art that carries significant cultural meaning, making it a remarkable addition to any jewelry collection.

Bernard Dawahoya (1935-2010) Masqueva, Little Sun was from the Hopi village of Shungopavi on Second Mesa.  He was a versatile artist in silver work, textiles, paintings, katsina dolls, and leather work.

"Bernard Dawahoya learned to make jewelry from his uncles, Washington Talayumptewa & Sidney Sekakuku.  Bernard recalled, 'I was about 15-years-old, when I was working at my Uncle Sidney Sekakuku's sheep camp.  I was playing with their tools, when they caught me one day.  This was the beginning of my jewelry making'.  Bernard also took classes at the Hopi Silvercraft Cooperative Guild.  He and Eldon James worked for Wayne and Emory Sekaquaptewa, making jewelry at their Hopi Enterprise shop in Phoenix.  In 1960, he worked in Kykotsmovi at their Hopicrafts Shop.  Their display room was relocated in 1971 at the Cultural Center.  Bernard eventually re-settled in Shungopavi, creating his own shop, while exhibiting at arts and crafts shows." [Schaaf, 2003:132]

". . . Dawahoya . . . is considered one of the most prominent silversmiths of his generation.  He used heavier gauge silver than most overlay artists, and his designs were bold and elegant; his cuts were crisp and precise." [Messier, 2014:128]

Condition: very good condition

Provenance: this Silver Overlay Bear Claw Earrings and Necklace SET by Bernard Dawahoya is from a client of Adobe Gallery

Reference and Recommended Reading:

- Messier, Pat & Kim Messier, Reassessing Hallmarks of Native Southwest Jewelry, 2014

- Schaaf, Gregory. American Indian Jewelry I, 1,200 Artist Biographies. 2003 

TAGS: Hopi Pueblo, Southwest Indian Jewelry, Bernard Dawahoya