Unique! Rare! Zuni Bolo & Belt Buckle Cachina Chief Head attr. Lambert Homer Sr.

Description

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This is a rare very old and very beautiful example of a Zuni bolo in the form of a Chief's head wearing a war painted mask, called a Kumanche Katsina and referred to as Comanche Kachina alternatively, and I don't know the artist for sure but the quality of the inlay is exceptional and exquisite, so I know it was done by one of the greatest Zuni artists in the early mid-century, and my best thought is that it is Lambert Homer Sr. though it could be one of the other early greats. One collector attributes to Dexter Cecillion but provides no evidence for the attribution though says it's her favorite bolo. I'd consider that attribution possible. I think this piece is even better than hers and it has the matching buckle, which I've never seen before. This is a very rare design and to also have a matching buckle is quite unique and wonderful. There is tiny very fine inlaid detail and the tips are also inlaid with channel inlay in exquisite multi coloration, while the bolo is primarily channel inlay and partly mosaic inlay with the same colors and stones you see in the inlaid matching tips. The design of the mask is unique to my experience but it would be represented in the Zuni ceremony dances
. The work is fabulous. The stones are very fine and rare and the piece is exquisite. The mother of pearl on the feathers is so lustrous, and has so much depth your eyes just want to devour it. There is coral and turquoise and brown and gold lip shell inlay as well. To my delight I am including a belt buckle by the same artist which makes a fabulous pairing with the bolo. The buckle is made with the same kachina being represented with stones that overlap those in the bolo. There is an etched mark on the buckle which I was not able to identify. If anyone can, I'd appreciate it. The mark on the buckle could be an AA or I think most probably AT, which might represent owner rather than the artist. The buckle is gorgeous and works perfectly with the bolo.
I expect the bolo was made for internal use within the tribe, possibly a special commission as I discuss below. The length of the slide is 3-7/8" and the width is 3-3/8". The tips length is 4" total and the inlaid dangling portion, which matches the bolo proper, measures 1-3/4" x 1-3/4". The leather tie is original to the piece and includes a flat piece of leather at the top so it can lie flat under a shirt collar. The entire end to end length with the dangling tips is about 40.5". This piece is unsigned and not marked for metal content, which is usual for those times, which I'd estimate to be the 1950s. The condition is excellent vintage, wearable and collectible. This is one of the finest and most unique early example of this kind of bolo. The buckle is measuring 2-1/2" high 2" wie and holds a belt about 1-3/8" or a bit larger. It has a swivel belt holder which is comfortable. It would be perfect worn with the bolo or could be converted to a pin / pendant, too!
These pieces represent religious significance sometimes relating to respect for the other tribes, and were often made for internal use or special request. They often end up in pawn for many reasons and then end up in the general population. This may have been a piece made originally internally for a tribe member to wear at celebrations and to be kept as a house piece. These are so spectacular, striking and impeccably made. They are masterpieces. And are truly gorgeous. A stunning and rare bolo and buckle, true museum worthy masterpieces. They are fabulous collectibles. I wearing the bolo often and it's become one of my most favorite. As warrior images I like to wear it going into battle. I think you will love these, too. They are among the most beautiful I've owned and I believe a one of a kind. Highly collectible and absolutely splendid!
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