Zuni Inlay Belt Buckle, Leander Othole, Turquoise Mother of Pearl Sterling Silver, 3x2" 43.9g

Description

This magnificent Leander and Lisa Othole Zuni inlay belt buckle showcases the stunning artistry of two master jewelers from the Zuni Pueblo in New Mexico. Southwest Native American jewelry is renowned for its intricate lapidary work, with the Zuni Nation being particularly famous for their flawless stone-to-stone inlay technique, where hand-cut pieces of material are fitted precisely together in a smooth, mosaic pattern. This genre of jewelry often features meaningful geometric designs and vibrant natural materials.

The large rectangular buckle features a striking, multi-panel geometric design that beautifully incorporates black jet, bright turquoise, vibrant red coral, and shimmering mother of pearl. The combination of stones creates a bold, graphic aesthetic that is typical of high-quality contemporary Zuni work. Crafted in sterling silver, the buckle has a substantial presence and impressive weight, coming in at 43.9 grams. The back of the buckle is hand-engraved with the artists' signatures, "Leander + Lisa Othole Zuni, n.m.", confirming its authenticity and provenance. This collectible piece measures approximately 3 inches by 2 inches and is a true testament to the legacy of Zuni silversmithing and lapidary art.