Zuni | Artist signed L B Chavez | Knifewing Inlay Bolo Tie | Vintage 1970s | Sterling Silver

A Bit About The Piece:

A beautifully inticate inlayed Zuni Knifewing Vintage Bolo Tie with natural stones in sterling silver. The artist signature, "L B Chavez" is engraved on the back. 

Details, details...

The Stones: Turquoise, Mother of Pearl, Red Coral, Lapis Lazuli, and Jet or Black Coral

Main Piece: 

• 60 pieces of Black Coral or Jet
• 36 pieces of Mother of Pearl including
  • 24 white pieces
  • 5 yellow pieces
  • 7 pearlescent pieces
• 22 pieces of Turquoise
• 12 pieces of Lapis Lazuli
• 3 pieces of Red Coral 

The Piece: Handmade Stone and Shell Inlay Bolo Tie

• .925 sterling silver, solid (bolo and rope caps)
• artist engraved hallmark... on back of bolo 
• steel slide on back
• leatherette braided cord
• length of cord including ends: 45 inches (22.5" hanging length in photo)
• bolo dimensions: 75.53mm (2.97") length x 76.14mm (2.99") wingspan x 5.90mm (0.23") thick
• total weight including cord: 76.31 grams

About The Artist

We believe this piece was made by Louis B. Chavez in the late 1970s. He was a notable master jeweler and silversmith from the Zuni Pueblo. His work is considered a significant part of Zuni history. His use of traditional stones and materials were usually used to convey complex mythological themes and figures. He did a significant amount of work in collaboration with his wife, Felicita Chavez. 

 Wear Report

Bolo polish shows light wear with some very faint surface scratches and a few tiny chips may be present. 

All vintage, antique, and estate items are sold "as is." Though we do our best to ensure these pieces are safe to be enjoyed, please refer to photos and product descriptions before making your purchase.