Beautiful Zuni attr. Elliot Qualo Mosaic Inlay into Shell Horse Head Pin Brooch

Description

Welcome!
WHAT'S GREAT ABOUT IT: this inlaid into shell, horse head pin, is confidently attributed to Elliot Qualo. I have another of his horse head pins in my store and also a pair of his literally prize winning horse head cufflinks, each available separately -- there are pictures of them included above. This pin is made of highly reflective mother of pearl, inlaid into brown shell and with silver inlaid as well, representing the bridle.
BACKGROUND: Elliot Qualo, had a brief but brilliant career. He made fabulous inlays from 1960 until his death in the late 1970s. He created some of the very best mosaic inlay work in Zuni history. He is considered among the best and most innovative mid century makers of stone to stone inlay, a technique that requires great patience and skill, because all the individual stones must fit tightly against one another and within the background stone without gaps or glue or cement that shows and his work is just immaculate and he is a multiple prize winner.
These stones were selected for their special qualities. The background is shell and the inlay is mother of pearl that has a lot of luminescence. It's especially opalescent and glows with a pale iridescence so all colors appear in it, and it glows when it moves. The inlay into the shell is difficult and this work is very fine. He also inlaid a sterling silver halter into the mother of pearl. Ths is finely wrought and an example of quality work. While it appears delicate, it's strong and a powerful statement of artistry.
The circular inlaid plaque is framed in sterling silver featuring a refined scalloped bezel which is unique to his work, and that bezel is further framed by hand applied raindrops which he did not usually use. It's  not marked for silver content which is common for those times. The bezel was only made by him and the inlaid horse is typical of his prize winning work; see the cufflinks available separately in my store with Elliot Qualo's hallmark and another horse head pin with reverse coloration. I wear them together.
I have owned other pieces of Elliot Qualo's work. It commands top prices in the galleries and is represented in the museums. I really treasure his work very greatly. I would wear the pins with the cufflinks, on a shirt pocket or hat, or a partner wear the pins while another the cufflinks. And, check my store for one of his best Gan Dancer bolos. I've included pics above of the cufflinks, and the other pin, each available separately.
MEASUREMENTS:
• diameter 1-5/8"
• weight 12.39grams
• unmarked for metal content which is usual, but it's sterling silver .925
• unsigned but confidently attributed to Elliot Qualo, Zuni
SUMMARY: This exquisite pin is suitable for the best collections; it is small which makes the quality of the work even more spectacular. The artist is one of the greatest silversmiths in Zuni history.
It's a truly gorgeous piece. And you can also snag the pin with the alternative colors for a great pairing as well as the prize winning cufflinks.
RED TAPE:
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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.