Morris Talawytewa Robinson (c1900-c1987)

“Morris Robinson was one of the great forerunners of Charles Loloma.  According to the 1923 U. S. Indian Census, Morris was already living and working in Phoenix, AZ.  In 1924, he was living with Hopi jeweler Grant Jenkins.  They made jewelry for Graves and Vaughn’s Indian Store in Phoenix.  During the next four decades, Morris became a master goldsmith and silversmith.  His creative and innovative designs distinguished him among his other peers: Ralph Tawangyawma, Harold Jenkins, Frank Nutima, Allen Pooyouma, and Pierce Kewanwytewa. They influenced the next generation of contemporary Hopi jewelers, including Preston Monongye and Charles Loloma.

“Morris Robinson was also an innovator and pioneer incorporating art deco styling into his jewelry very early on.  He preceded Charles Loloma and Kenneth Begay in becoming the first Native American master goldsmith in the southwest.” Schaaf 2013, 201

Morris Robinson was of the Lizard/Snake Clan from the villages of Oraibi and Bacabi on the Hopi Third Mesa.  His hallmark is H & a snake.  He has been extensively collected and published.