Well known Zuni artist, Nora (Sandy) Leekity began making jewelry for the trade in the early 1940's. She is most well known for her lovely horse figures. She crafted fewer of the steer figures, making them more rare and collectible. Her unique pieces were meticulously made of Sterling Silver, Turquoise, Pin Shell, Mother of Pearl, Gold-lipped shell, coral and Jet.
Each piece is hand carved and raised, giving it a three dimensional look. This channel inlay depicts a large steer or heifer head and is set with turquoise, gold-lipped shell, coral, jet and Mother of Pearl. The tips are hand crafted and have a nice heavy silver weight to them. The bolo measures 2 1/8" long by 2 1/2" wide. The tips measure 3 1/4" long. Leather strap length is 181/2". No signatures or maker marks but definitely the work of Nora Leekity. Circa: 1950's.
Her work is published in Zuni Jewelry, the Art and the People, Vol 1, by Barbara and Ed Bell, American Indian Jewelry 1, by Gregory Schaaf.
