Well known Zuni artist, Andrew Dewa is the son of Anita and Leroy Dewa, from who he learned the craft in his teens. Andrew made jewelry for trade since the 1960's. He is most well known for his exquisite mosaic raised and carved inlay work often depicting figures such as rainbow men, shalakos, antelope dancers, and most commonly, sunfaces. His unique pieces were meticulously handmade of Sterling Silver, Turquoise, Coral, Mother of Pearl, Gold-lipped shell and Jet. Unfortunately, Andrew passed away in April 2001.
This beautiful bolo tie depicts the Zuni Antelope Dancer and is set with turquoise, Mediterranean coral, jet, Mother of Pearl, gold lip shell and green snail shell. This bolo tie offers the best of Dewa's work, with his distinct mosaic design and precise silver work. The silver tips were also made by Andrew and assembled with this bolo. The bolo measures 2 3/4" long by 1 3/4" wide. No signatures or maker marks but definitely the work of Andrew Dewa. Circa: 1960's. This bolo tie is from an estate collection with provenance from the original owner.
His work is published in Zuni Jewelry, the Art and the People, Vol 2, by Barbara and Ed Bell, Zuni Jewelry, by Theda and Michael Bassman, Schiffer Publishing, Treasures of the Zuni, by Theda Bassman, and Zuni: A Village of Silversmiths, University of New Mexico Press.
