Hopi Overlay Sterling Silver Bear Paw Ring Sz 7 — Signed TT/IT View Watchlist >
- Winning Bid: $46.99
- 23 Bid(s) View Bid History
- High Bidder: harpandclover
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Lot # JD178
System ID # 27747448
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3 Watching
Hopi Overlay Sterling Silver Bear Paw Ring Sz 7 — Signed TT/IT
A well-executed example of Hopi silver overlay work, this ring presents the bear paw above a watering hole — one of the more enduring symbol pairings in the Hopi design vocabulary. The elongated oval face is built in the traditional two-layer method: a hand-cut upper sheet of sterling laid over a scorched and oxidized base, the recessed ground providing the contrast that gives overlay its graphic authority. Five claws sweep from the upper field; below, a circular watering hole enclosing prayer feathers (pahos) occupies the pad. The cutting is confident and the oxidation uniform.
In Hopi cosmology, the bear is guardian of the West and a figure of healing and inner strength. The watering hole, sacred to a desert people, carries prayers for water and life. The pahos within it extend that prayer upward. The composition is among the most spiritually layered in the Hopi silversmith's repertoire.
CONDITION
Good. Light surface wear and fine scattered scratches consistent with age and use. Residual patina in the recessed areas is expected in overlay work. Small areas of green surface oxidation visible in the recessed ground, as shown; this will clean easily. Shank solid, overlay intact. Polishing left to the buyer.
SPECIFICATIONS
| Material | Sterling Silver (tested; unmarked) |
| Technique | Hopi two-layer overlay with oxidized background |
| Motif | Bear paw with watering hole and prayer feathers (pahos) |
| Hallmark | Engraved initials — TT or IT (artist unconfirmed) |
| Ring Size | 7 |
| Face | 1.41" × .83" |
| Shank Width | 3.53 mm |
| Weight | 7.3 grams |
| Shank Style | Double shank |
| Condition | Good |
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