Sterling Silver 1/20 12K Gold Fill Feather Cuff Bracelet by Navajo Artist Lee Bennett

Description

This is a phenomenal vintage Navajo feather cuff bracelet, a captivating piece handcrafted by master silversmith Lee Bennett. Bennett is a listed Navajo artist, celebrated for his intricate metalwork, often featuring stunning two-tone designs like the one presented here. The bracelet masterfully marries traditional Navajo jewelry aesthetics with a substantial, modern presence. Navajo silversmithing is a craft that traces its origins back to the mid-19th century, learning from Mexican artisans. It soon developed its own distinct style characterized by the bold use of silver, deep stamp work, and the incorporation of natural materials like turquoise. This bracelet showcases classic elements like the heavily stamped sterling silver rope and scalloped borders, but it takes on a sophisticated contemporary feel with the striking 1/20 12K gold-filled overlay feather. The feather motif itself is a recurring and powerful symbol in Native American art, often representing trust, honor, strength, wisdom, and freedom. The bracelet is of a sturdy construction, weighing in at a substantial 63.2 grams. It is sized at 5 3/8 inches end-to-end with a 1 1/4 inch cuff opening, a perfect fit for a smaller to medium wrist. The interior of the cuff is marked 1/20 12K G.F. Lee Bennett Sterling, clearly identifying the artist and the premium materials used in its creation. This striking cuff is not just a piece of jewelry; it is a wearable work of art that represents a rich cultural legacy and the enduring skill of a renowned Native American artist.