Lot 109B
Gomeo Bobelu (Native American, Zuni, 1964-2022), ca. late 20th to early 21st century CE. A stunning handcrafted pendant by the late Zuni artist and activist Gomeo Bobelu, renowned for his award-winning designs and cultural advocacy. The sterling silver bezel is inlaid with black jet and fossilized mammoth ivory, while a broad silver collar, partially obscured by beads, showcases geometric patterning. Two strands of lightly polished coral, turquoise, and ivory beads are threaded through integral suspension loops, creating a necklace. The piece features a large bail loop for wearability, and the verso is signed by the artist. Bobelu reportedly modeled the features after his grandmother, recognizable by her distinctive hairstyle. Size: 1.7" L x 1.4" W (4.3 cm x 3.6 cm); silver quality: 94% to 95%; weight: 15.6 grams
In a 2016 interview, Gomeo Bobelu explained that many of his figural designs serve as tributes to deceased family members and went on to state: "Most of my designs look like a katsina face, but I kind of didn't want to exploit our Zuni culture - the Zuni-mask culture, because that has supernatural energy, and I don't really like to manifest that, so I call mine a spirit face." Weideman, P. "Hearts beating in the rock: The Zuni Show," August 19th, 2016, Santa Fe New Mexican. Bobelu received the 2006 Goodman Fellowship Award from the Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Provenance: private Livermore, Colorado, USA collection
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#190719
- Condition: Some dark patina and toning, but otherwise intact and excellent. Signed by artist.
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