BEST! Zuni Joe Zunie, signed Bolo Elk Mosaic Inlay "Book Piece" Turquoise 1970s

Description

Welcome!
Wonderful! I'm offering a fabulous, signed bolo by Joe Zunie in the form of an elk with dangling inlaid hoof tips, and turquoise grass with spondylus rocks. This is an especially fine quality work, created in 1970s, based on the Bennett, in superb condition. This elk has four or five point antlers. a brown shell chest and white (with pink and gray) shell body and yellow lip shell antlers and black jet eye. He has engraved fur on his body and engraved marks on his antler and hooves which is typical of Joe Zunie's work. He is in great vintage condition and is very beautiful and graceful. This exact form is rare but it is based on known forms of his: his ram. This has all the same elements of his ram: the etched fur, the turquoise and spondylus at the ground, the dangling inlaid hooves and the inlay style, but this is an elk with antlers and it's very delicately and finely made. It's a true masterpiece, of finest quality. One book has two similar forms of this elk and prices them up to 00 and one of those is pretty much identical to this one. That author is appraising his own collection, which is not in my opinion ethical, but in this case I've seen some substantiation of the sales prices on this one, so I do agree with his valuation on this piece and even so, I've priced this piece much lower. Joe Zunie was a great enough artist to not exactly repeat his designs at that time in his career, but instead to have slight variations. I always like to see that; an indication of a great artist. This was obviously Joe Zunie's work nd it is also signed, so there is no doubt. I have had several of his pieces and have loved them all.
Joe Zunie was one of the really great Zuni silversmiths whose work is well recognized and appears in the best museums and galleries. And of course, the books that discuss Zuni jewelry. He has a page in Bell's Volume 1, 1970. Take a look, page 70. His work is displayed at the Kennedy Museum of Art, Ohio State University. Art of the Zuni Exhibit. He is the brother of Lincoln Zunie, William Zunie and Ernest A. Zunie, all of whose work is currently available in my store and all of whose work is renowned. This is an important piece, suitable for any collection and museum worthy. This is a gorgeous bolo and a rare example of Joe Zunie's best work.
The bolo is a big size at 3-1/4" (8.26 cm) nose to tail, and 3-3/8" (8.57 cm) high, with inlaid tips at 1-1/4" (3.18 cm) for the inlaid hoof tips and the entire tips are 3-5/8" (9.21 cm) high, all original. The tie with the tips end to end is 42" (106.68 cm). This is all original. The tie is still in good condition with no breaks as of the time I list it. These ties can break with age and can be replaced. I have a great source for that work who can make buttery soft ones for them if necessary. The Bennett is marked Bennett Pat. Pending, dating it to the 1970s and also appears original. This piece is fully signed by Joe Zunie and not signed for silver content which is usual for that period of time. This is a great collector's piece, museum worthy and gorgeous, very fine! It is truly a "best" example. You will revel in owning this one. It's gorgeous.
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Returns will be accepted for 30 days after your receipt for any reason and without question. Please let me know if you would like to return something. Returns must be in the same condition they were shipped. If I make a significant mistake in a listing I'll always give you a full refund. The 20% restocking fee does not apply when the mistake is mine. I care that you're happy and about my accuracy, and will always stand behind my work.
When I include pages from published books in my listings it is in accordance with Fair Use Law, which permits the use of source material for discussion, reference, education and criticism.
Attributions on many of the old pieces of Native American jewelry are sometimes a moving target. All the books have errors, so in addition to counterchecking, I have developed some expertise over the years and I do care about getting it right, so as more information comes to light I update my listings and also get in touch with my previous buyers, to inform them of any changes in attributions. I am sincerely committed to ongoing accuracy.
Everything I sell comes from my personal collection or is something that I would include in my personal collection. Most pieces are museum worthy and gallery suitable, sold to you at great pricing. I vet every item carefully for quality and condition, and offer you the best. I want you to be able to rely on me for top quality, superb items that are often unique and rare examples of old antique vintage southwest, indian, native american and fine gold and gemstones, whether you're starting a collection or adding to one, or want something great to wear or gift. My goal is that all my buyers are delighted, that my special pieces find the right homes.