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.
This wonderful bolo tie depicts a lovely horse head and is set with turquoise, coral, brown lip shell and Mother of Pearl. Portions of Nora's horses are often raised and smooth material, to give it a realistic look. A deep smooth patina graces the silver. This bolo tie offers the best of Nora's work, with her distinct horse design and precise silver work.
The bolo measures 1 5/8" wide by 2" tall, with 2 1/8" tips. The total length, including the tips is 37". No signature, which was common on many of Nora's early pieces. Circa: late 1950'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.