Large Vintage Zuni Inlay Pin of a Hopi Maiden

Here is a finely crafted vintage Zuni inlay pin depicting a Hopi maiden. The large sterling silver pin uses both carving techniques and multi-stone mosaic inlay to create a detailed human figure that is sculptural in form. Notice the rare details like the gathers in the maidens dress that make her come to life. This pin is truly wearable art. In fact, it might be advisable to have the maiden pin mounted on a stand so that when it is not being worn, it can still be enjoyed.

The pin is part of the private, personal collection of American Indian art dealer Martha Hopkins Struever. At the time of her passing, she was working on a biography of Daisy Hooee Nampeyo, Hopi wife of Zuni artist Leo Poblano. Daisy Hooee Nampeyo greatly influenced Leo's jewelry, and some works that have been credited to Leo were, most likely, done by Daisy. Martha Struever used this particular maiden pin in her book research. She originally believed it to be Daisy, but later determined that while it is very well done, it probably is not her work after all.

The large piece measures a full 4 1/4" long x 1 3/4" wide. It is unsigned on the reverse.