Vintage Zuni Inlay Buckle of A Covered Wagon by Vincent and Marvina Dishta

This large silver buckle is an interesting merging of cultures. It's a vintage buckle by Vincent and Marvina Dishta depicting a covered wagon sometimes called a prairie schooner, an instantly recognizable symbol of the American frontier and Westward Expansion. In the 19th century, these wagons played a pivotal role in the movement of pioneers (and their goods) traveling west across a vast landscape in search of a new life. Most often, people would walk alongside the wagons because they'd be filled with supplies. At night and in inclement weather, the wagons would provide shelter.

What is often left out of the history of westward migration is that Indigenous peoples already lived established and meaningful lives in the territories settlers saw as "wild" or "untamed." The arrival of settlers in these westernmost outposts often resulted in disastrous consequences for Native people including land displacement, conflict and cultural disruption.

At first, it seems almost confusing that Vincent and Marvina Dishta, Indigenous jewelers from Zuni Pueblo, would create such a beautiful buckle of this particular symbol, but then it must be remembered that many artists use art for just this purpose - to express complex narratives. This bold vintage buckle represents themes including resilience and adaptation - not so much of the settlers - but of the Indigenous people whose lives were forever altered with the arrival of the settlers in their wagons. 

Look closely and notice how well this oval buckle is made: inside the wire rope-like border is a second channel inlay border of turquoise dots and mother of pearl. The wagon itself is made with complex inlay of turquoise and mother of pearl in a style of inlay originated by Frank Dishta who worked for famous trader C.G. Wallace. There are also silver plants and flowers accented with the same style of coral inlay. It's truly a magnificent piece, and when you place the design in its proper historical context, it's as meaningful as it is beautiful.

Vincent Dishta is the son of Virgil Dishta Sr. and the Grandson of Frank Dishta. Marvina is his wife. They've been creating fine jewelry in the celebrated family style since the 1970's. 

This buckle measures an impressive 4" x 3" and fits a 1 3/4" belt strap. It is hallmarked on the reverse.

There is also a matching bolo.

*An interesting aside: the wagons used in westward expansion in the 19th century are often mistakenly called Conestoga wagons, however, Conestoga wagons were actually too heavy to be used for the very long-distance travel.

• Large Vintage Zuni Buckle by Vincent and Marvina Dishta
• Depicts A Covered Wagon 
• Inlay of Turquoise, Mother of Pearl & Coral
• Measures 4" x 3"
• Fits a 1 3/4" belt.
• Hallmarked on the reverse