Creation Date

1931 – 1955

Description

"This 2 1/4 inch pin is centered with a large, oval shaped, black obsidian stone, mounted with silver. The mounting is scalloped at the top and bottom of the stone, while the narrow ends are finished with tiny silver balls. The pin was designed and made by Ambrose Roanhorse, Navajo silversmith."

There are 2 loops on the back that could be used to hang other pieces.

Ambrose Roanhorse taught silversmithing at the Santa Fe Indian School in the 1930s. He was one of the first native artists to depart from traditional designs. Instead, his work is noted for bold lines, simple forms, and minimal stamping. When he used stones, they were generally single high quality stones. This piece is an excellent examples of his bold, simple forms and use of high quality stones.