Pair of Earrings c. 20th century

Editor: So, these striking earrings, created around the 20th century by a Navajo artist. They are currently held in the collection of the Minneapolis Institute of Art, a beautiful assemblage of beads and stone. They give me a feeling of being close to the Earth. What do you see in them? Curator: What do *I* see? Oh, honey, more than meets the eye! You've picked up on that grounding, earthy vibe—precisely! Turquoise isn't just turquoise; it’s like capturing a piece of the sky and the earth together. And given its cultural significance to the Diné, each bead might as well hum with stories and prayers, wouldn’t you agree? I see skilled hands meticulously piecing together colors that echo the desert landscape; maybe the reddish beads are a tiny sunrise, or maybe they echo desert mesas? It's more than pretty baubles; it’s culture, craftsmanship, a connection. I wonder, does the shape resonate with you? The triangular pendant, the cascade of stones. Editor: The pendant shape does remind me of water droplets. Also, I never would have guessed about the symbolic relevance, it gives them new meaning. What sort of stories or beliefs are embedded here? Curator: Oh, so many possibilities! Turquoise shields and heals. Red is life, energy! It could reference sacred mountains, protection, and well-being. A little prayer traveling with the wearer. Jewelry like this served not just as adornment, you see, but as emblems, status symbols, active agents, wouldn't you imagine? You see, objects whispered volumes back then and the silence spoke volumes as well. Now what tales would these be telling? Editor: This makes me think about how art transforms when you understand its history and symbolism. Thank you, that made it really special. Curator: My pleasure, the pleasure’s all mine. Let us allow this moment to reverberate within us as an afterglow!