Lee Begay Silver Tufa Cast Buckle With Three Figures and Turquoise

About The Piece:

Introducing a one-of-a-kind, tufa cast silver buckle. A sculptural work of Navajo silver, the buckle is by contemporary artist Lee Begay.

Lee Begay carved three striking figures into the surface of his tufa mold and then he poured molten silver into the mold resulting in the richly textured surface you see on the face of the buckle.

Each figure's head is set with a different shade of turquoise. Not quite human but not quite animal, each figure is unique although they each wear naja necklace. The one in the center is the most powerful with its buffalo horns, lightning stick and body etched with a Zia symbol. One either side are two distinct forms - one appears to represent night with moon and stars. The other appears to represent day with a corn stalk rising under a bright sun. 

All together, this is a strong piece of Navajo artwork. It's handmade of heavy silver that matches the weight of its symbolism.

Lee Begay's buckle measures 3" x 2" and fits a 1 1/2" buckle. Signed on the reverse.

Summary:

• Artist: Lee Begay

• Tribe: Navajo

• Item: Belt buckle

• Technique: Tufa Cast

• Material: Silver & turquoise

• Dimensions: 3" x 2"

• Belt Size: Fits a 1 1/2" belt

• Signature: Signed on the reverse