This beautiful vintage pin is attributed to Zuni artist Lambert Homer Sr. precise inlay of turquoise, abalone shell, mother of pearl and jet forms this beautiful Zuni Eagle figure.
The pin measures 3 1/8" tall by 1 7/8" wide. Not hallmarked, which was common during this era. There is writing on the back stating from the Lynn Trusdell collection with a series of numbers.
The Zuni are known for their fine silversmithing, which began in the 1870's after learning fundamental techniques from the Navajo. Lanyade was the first Zuni silversmith, who learned the art from Atsidi Chon, a Navajo smith. By 1880, Zuni jewelers already set turquoise in silver. Today jewelry making thrives as an art form in at the Zuni Pueblo. Many Zuni have become master silversmiths and have perfected the skill of stone inlay, channel inlay, needlepoint and petit point. They found that by using small pieces of stone they were able to create intricate designs and unique patterns. Their style of work is very tedious and time consuming.
