Sterling Silver Double Pen Holder Desk Accessory [SOLD]

Navajos learned the art of silversmithing from the Mexicans in the mid-19th Century. Atsidi Sani “Old Smith” (1828-1918) is considered to be one of the first Navajo smiths to work with silver. Initially, silver was hammered into the desired shape and designs were chiseled into the piece. Later pieces featured stamp work and turquoise stones.  As the demand for tourist pieces increased, more artists could make a living as jewelers. In addition to jewelry, silver objects such as boxes, bookmarks and letter openers were made.

Objects to be used as desk sets were very popular in the mid-20^th century.  This sterling silver double pen holder is probably from that period. The sheet silver base rests on four silver balls that serve as legs. Two cylinders attached to the top are designed to hold pens.  The design on the pedestal is a pair of stylized birds that were formed by cutting the silver top and overlaying it on a darkened lower layer of silver.

Condition: very good condition and could be polished if desired.

Provenance: from the collection of a gentleman from Colorado

Recommended Reading: Beesh Ligaii In Balance: The Besser Collection of Navajo And Pueblo Silverwork by John Torres-Nez