1970s Village Scene Collar Necklace

Sterling silver collar necklace depicting a detailed Hopi village scene, handcrafted by Victor Coochwytewa in 1976. This masterfully rendered landscape captures traditional Hopi architecture in fine overlay detail and is paired with a large pendant set with natural turquoise from the Old Man (Turquoise Mountain) mine in Arizona. The pendant also features a cornstalk motif, symbolizing life and sustenance. The necklace's end panels feature overlaid clouds and rain symbols. The symbols on this piece represent many blessings: abundant rain falls on the revered homeland, providing much needed water in a barren landscape and a bountiful harvest. It is an answer to many prayers and ceremonial supplications.

The back of the piece is stamped with the rare Bicentennial bell hallmark, used by Kopavi only for exceptional pieces made in 1976, marking it as a special commemorative work. The collar is completed with a handmade sterling silver link chain

Part of the historic Kopavi Collection, this necklace has never been previously owned.

Number of Strands: 1
Necklace Length: 16.5” (not including the pendant)
Pendant Dimensions: 1.75” x 2.25”