Navajo Silver Box with Spondylus Shell and Turquoise

Artist: Once Known

Dimensions: 5 7/8”L x 4 1/2”W x 2 1/2”H
Tribe: Navajo/ Zuni
Stone: Orange Spondylus Shell, Turquoise and Jet
Material: Silver
Price: Not For Sale

As seen in the Elegant Vessels: A century of southwest silver boxes book (Page 48-50)

The practice of repurposing bow guards as box tops continued well into the twentieth century. The use of dance related jewelry as box tops is evident here, utilizing inlaid shells of the type ceremonially worn by male dance participants.