This impressive Old Pawn Navajo Ketoh is completely “over-the-top.”
The basics: the sterling panel measures 3 7/8” by 2 7/8”, it weighs 7.1oz (202grams) and will fit a wrist anywhere from 6.5” to 9” around. The three #8 Mine turquoise stones measure .75” by .5” each, are set in flat bezel and are outstanding representations of the source. The eight larger circular Persian turquoise stones measure 5/16” across and the four smaller ones are .25” across. Due to the age and delicate nature of the leather thong that attaches the plate to the band, I haven’t removed it to look for identifying marks, but it’s design and level of craftsmanship leads me to believe it’s made by the same artisan as our other Bow Guard from the same estate—the panel tests positive for coin silver or higher. One of the corners of the panel is slightly bent which is visible in the pictures, and the attaching leather thong is missing, which are the only apologies I’m willing to offer for this museum-worthy Native American work of art—it’s integrity is beyond reproach.
The craftsmanship and attention to detail are indications that the artisan made this piece for a fellow tribe member. Every aspect of the repousse work, the unusual and exacting stamps and the inclusion of a vastly superior stones from two sources, all point to this piece being created using traditional methods, with no intention of it being offered outside the pueblo where it was created—however, this could have been created as a request from one of the many important clients that patronized the group of J.W. Edgar’s talented silversmiths, all of which were the best in the field at the time.
It came into our possession via the J.W. Edgar estate—The Turquoise King of the Southwest, where it has been safely stored since the 1940s. Edgar had many opportunities to trade with other turquoise miners and the inclusion of 12 superior Persian turquoise stones, that beautifully offset the #8 mine stones is not unusual. Persian Turquoise has not been mined since before WWII and Persian suppliers saw fit to offer their turquoise in “cab” form exclusively—meaning the stones were shaped into circles (some were ovals but quite rarely), polished and ready for use once they were offered on the market. There are few wear indications due to it’s being in storage, which is also responsible for the even, undisturbed, dark patina that covers the piece. The images of our two Ketohs from this impressive estate are somewhat larger in the video.
No discounts codes will be applied and the sale of this item will be final—this piece will undeniably be a huge star of any collection, so please ask as many questions as you can think of. FREE USPS Express Overnight shipping applies to this item. 20 images can be provided in large format and are available on request. Should you desire specific images other than those available we can accommodate you. This important, historical Navajo work of art by an unknown Early 20th Century artisan, is not to be missed.
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