Sterling Silver Overlay Pin and Pendant with Corn Motif [SOLD]

Lawrence Saufkie (1935-2011) was the son of Paul Saufkie.  The elder Saufkie, along with Fred Kabotie, developed the Hopi overlay style of jewelry during the 1930s. After World War II, they taught this style to returning veterans at the Hopi Crafts Guild on Second Mesa at Hopi Pueblo. Lawrence Saufkie continued working in the style of his father and went on to influence a new generation of silversmiths.

Lawrence Saufkie was designated an Arizona Living Treasure in 2002. He has been featured in numerous magazines and books and his work has been collected by museums such as the Heard Museum, the Museum of Northern Arizona, the Peabody Museum, and Harvard University.

This pin - pendant is an excellent example of the precision of fine Hopi overlay jewelry.  The design elements reflect all that is important to the Hopi people. The life-giving properties of water, clouds and corn are blessings which the Hopi hold sacred. This pin reflects the gratitude the artist has for these blessings of good fortune.

Condition: This pin is in perfect condition, the artist’s name and hallmark are stamped on the back.  

Recommended Reading: The Beauty of Hopi Jewelry by Theda Bassman

Provenance: from the estate of a gentleman from Texas, passed through the family