Dating to the 1970s, this magnificent creation inspired by Tommy Singer is breathtaking. Singer was the first to use chip inlay and is accredited with starting the genre. The handcrafted nature of this squash is evident throughout—each bird element is unique and all were cut to shape without a jig of any kind. The same goes for the beautifully hand stamped naja—the curves around the outside are irregular. There are two layers of sterling, (overlay) that were used to accommodate the turquoise and coral inlay depressions—not an unusual technique, but seldom seen on a squash from this time period. Each bird element’s stamping is unique as well and varies considerably from bird to bird. The turquoise inlay appears to be from a high grade source as it’s color is vivid with slight hue variations, and the coral inlay has darkened over time aided by exposure and touch. The entire necklace is covered in heavy age patina.
There are 10 Peyote Bird elements which are attached to the necklace using the old technique of running the wires through a single, rectangular sterling plate. The average bird element measurement is 1.25” by 7/8” and the naja measures 1 7/8” by 1.75”. All the bird elements are slightly domed with the naja being slightly more so. There are 132 hand made sterling beads strung on two strands of Fox Tail–the necklace had to be re-strung as the older wire was broken in a couple of place, and the superior Fox Tail wire will last a lifetime. The necklace measures 25” long, not including the naja and it weighs 4.4 ounces. This Zuni Pawn handcrafted masterpiece was no doubt constructed specifically for use during Peyote ceremonies and was probably worn by a high ranking tribal council member. Singer’s hallmark changed several times during his career as a silversmith and this hallmark has been debated as to whether it’s Tommy Singer or not, with it’s authenticity being verified by a near unanimous contengency of seasoned professionals, so I’m not prepared to attribute the piece to Singer with 100% certainty. It’s collect-ability is two fold; it’s a religious artifact as well as fantastic work of Native American art.
