Bracelet c. 1930

This bracelet was created by a Navajo (Diné) artist. The striking turquoise stones and silver evoke a sense of the natural world and indigenous craftsmanship. Observe how the bracelet’s design balances symmetry and organic form. The central cluster of turquoise stones, arranged in a radial pattern, anchors the composition, while flanking clusters echo the central motif, creating a rhythmic visual harmony. The smooth, polished surfaces of the turquoise contrast with the textured, hand-worked silver, emphasizing the material qualities of each element. This interplay of materials and shapes embodies a symbolic language, reflecting the cultural values and aesthetic traditions of the Navajo people. The bracelet challenges the Western notion of art as purely aesthetic, instead functioning as a cultural artifact, laden with meaning and identity. Notice how the artist’s hand is present in every detail, celebrating the intimate connection between maker and object, and reminding us that art is a dynamic and ongoing process of cultural expression.