A stunning cuff created by Hopi Silversmith, Merle Namoki
! Based on a similar, award-winning piece that we offered last year, Merle made some design changes, and entered this piece into the 2019 Heard Museum Guild Indian Fair & Market where he received an Honorable Mention from the Exhibitors Juried Competition. (The ribbon is included with the purchased piece).
This cuff measures 2 3/8 inches wide and a total of 7 inches around the inside, which includes the 1 1/4 inch opening. The materials used are sterling silver and 18 karat gold. (18 gauge over 18 gauge). Contemporary looking but still traditional Hopi overlay. Merle’s hallmark, the Sun’s Forehead is stamped on the inside.
The story behind the design is as follows in Merle’s own words: “Renewal of Life. Every minute, hour, day, month, year etc... A life is renewed. Same as the design on the bracelet, it could be corn, beans, melon, etc... Seeds of all life. When you plant the seeds, the Germination Deity does the magic to germinate the seeds to grow. And of course you need the Elements, Sun, & Moisture in order for something to grow. The corn represents people, the Germination Deity helps to produce food for us to survive. Moisture, Lightning, Rain, & Water we need in our system to survive also. Father Sun helps guide us through, day by day for long healthy lives. Grandfather Moon, & Stars guide us at night when we are sleeping, & resting. The prayer feathers are for praying, what you want in life for every living thing in this world. The canes represents the plants, from seeds, grown, full grown, to maturity. Same as for us peoples, newborn, child, teenager, adult, & old age is what we want to live. The lines stamped, bottom for the land that we live on. Middle is like a cycle we do every year, or a Guidance that was given to us by the Creator (Masau). Top is the Heavens, where all the Elements are that are helping us grow.”
NOTE: Pictures often appear larger than actual size to show the details and fine craftsmanship!
