Well known Zuni artist, Nora Leekity, (active 1940's - 1970) began making jewelry for the trade in the early 1940's. She is most well known for her unique and lovely horse bolo ties and buckles. Her unique pieces were meticulously handmade of Sterling Silver, Turquoise, Pin Shell, Mother of Pearl, cowry shell, coral and Jet.
This wonderful belt buckle depicts a saddled horse and is set with turquoise, cowry shell, pin shell and Mother of Pearl. This buckle offers the best of Nora's work, with her distinct horse design and precise silver work.
The buckle measures 3" long by 2" tall and will fit a 1 1/2" belt. No signatures, which was common on many of Nora's pieces. Circa: 1960's.
Her work is published in Zuni Jewelry, the Art and the People, Vol 1, by Barbara and Ed Bell, American Indian Jewelry 1, by Gregory Schaaf.