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Vintage Zuni Pin Pendant Virgil Shirley Benn Multi-Stone Inlay Apache Maiden

$750.00
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SKU:
11SFF30017
  • Tribe: Zuni
  • Condition: Excellent vintage condition. No damage.
  • Size: 2-3/8" x 2"
  • Artisan: Virgil and Shirley Benn
  • Materials: Clam Shell, Jet, Spiny Oyster, Turquoise, Sterling Silver
  • Item Weight: 20 Grams / over 3/4 Ounce
  • Hallmark: Scribed "Apache" and "V&S Benn"

This remarkable vintage Native American handmade pink clam shell, jet, spiny oyster, and turquoise inlay and Sterling silver pin / pendant was created in the image of an Apache Maiden in a startling fashion by Virgil & Shirley Benn. Each of the TWENTY-ONE pieces of stone and shell included in this pieces has been detailed with HAND CARVING giving the whole an incredible life-like quality and WONDERFUL PERSONALITY!. VIRGIL BENN (Zuni and Pauite; 1935 --) and SHIRLEY BENN (Hopi and Tewa; 1936 --) Shirley is the great-granddaughter of the famous Hopi potter, Nampeyo. The Benn’s began making jewelry in the late 1960s. Virgil and Shirley collaborate to create masterpieces in mosaic and channel inlay technique of jewelry making. They were the first to use etching in our work, which giving their pieces a life like look. In the beginning they did mostly animals, but over the years they have done everything they can think of. They are multiple award winners and are considered to be THE BEST CONTEMPORARY ARTISTS that Zuni has ever seen. Virgil and Shirley Benn have now trained, encouraged and passed the family business to their own Kids and Grandkids to continue crafting their very SPECIAL "Benn" quality jewelry so they are now retired. Becoming one of the most highly collectible and desirable artist during your career only makes finding pieces now that they have retired ever more difficult. Make this remarkable piece of Zuni artistry a key part of your collection of fine Native American arts.