ZUNI Native Eldred MARTINEZ Sterling Inlaid KNIFEWING Kachina Pendant or Pin. A superior Native American piece hand crafted by Zuni artis Eldred Martinez.
This can be worn as a necklace pendant or brooch pin. Sterling silver finely inlaid with multi-colored gemstones, some smooth, and some stones carved with texture. In the shape of the Zuni Knifewing God. The Zuni Knife-wing God (A-tchi-a la-to-pa), a sky being, has a combined human-bird form.
Though an animistic spirit, he holds no religious significance when rendered in silver but is merely decorative. He is represented as possessing a human form, furnished with flint knife-feathered pinions, and tail. His dress consists of the conventional terraced cap (representative of his dwelling place among the clouds)... His weapons are the Great Flint-Knife of War, the Bow of the Skies (the Rainbow), and the Arrow of Lightning.His guardians or warriors are the Great Mountain Lion of the North and that of the upper regions. He was doubtless the original War God of the Zunis. Marked at back'Knifewing Eldred Martinez Zuni. Quite large, definitely a statement piece.
Measures 4" x 2 1/2". Total weight 48.15 grams. And a big thank you for shopping with Gary Germer & Associates, we appreciate you stopping by. Gary is one of Portland, Oregon's most respected antique & personal property appraisers & estate brokers. ISA certified and in the business for nearly 30 years, Gary has worked hard to build a name that is synonymous with integrity, honesty & good humor. We strive to only improve this reputation. Please expect prompt, friendly service. Authenticity of all items is guaranteed.Come visit us at our gallery, we'd love to meet you!