Bracelet c. 1940

This turquoise and silver bracelet was made by a Navajo artist. Just looking at it, I feel like I can sense the weight of the silver, the coolness of the stones. I can imagine the patient hands of the silversmith, shaping the metal, carefully setting each stone, and how the artist might have selected just the right nuggets of turquoise, each with its own unique matrix of color. It's not just about decoration; it's about connection—a conversation with the materials. And think about the history embedded in the design – a synthesis of cultural influences, personal expression, and technical skill. I wonder what the artist was thinking about while making it? What stories do they want to tell? This bracelet becomes more than adornment; it’s an emblem of identity. It’s part of a long and rich tradition of craftsmanship, passed down through generations, with each artist building upon the legacies of those who came before, while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of their own creativity. It's a beautiful, wearable painting!