Dennis and Nancy Edaakie are without a doubt two of the best known Zuni silversmiths of all time. Dennis and Nancy Edaakie's inlaid jewelry is remarkable for its precision. They use a difficult overlay-inlay technique that produces some of the most detailed handmade jewelry in the world: two pieces of silver, one with the design cut out, are welded together and then precisely cut stone and shell pieces are inset into the cutout area. Their jewelry depicts images of Southwestern life including cardinals, roadrunners, cacti and Native ritual figures. Their work can be seen in many prestigious Native American jewelry collections as well as all the best Zuni jewelry collecting guides.
This inlaid roadrunner bolo was created by Dennis & Nancy between 1960-1970. It is hallmarked DENNIS E. which helps to date the bolo, since they changed their hallmark to Dennis & Nancy Edaakie in the early 1970's. The bolo clasp is a Bennett C31 style, which also helps to date the bolo since this type of slide was only made between 1957 until some time in 1967.
The over-sized bolo measures 3 tall by 2-3/4 wide and the silver tips are 2-1/4 long. Impeccable turquoise, coral, abalone, MOP & jet inlay.
Please ignore any shadows or reflections seen in the polished sterling silver. It was difficult to get a photo of the bolo without reflections. The bolo is in very good condition for it's age & travels. The inlay is perfect. The silver needs a good polish. The leather cord in a bit worn but not frayed. One of the silver bolo tips is slightly bent.
Old Dennis Edaakie pieces are becoming more and more scarce. Dennis Edaakie died in 2008. Don't miss this opportunity to own an vintage original Dennis & Nancy Edaakie bolo dating from 1960-1970.