This Depression era Thunderbird necklace was hand made by an unknown Santo Domingo artist. The Thunderbird necklace features a large inlaid thunderbird, 10 inlaid tabs and gypsum or bone heishi. During that era, materials were scarce and so the Santo Domingo indians used whatever materials were available to make these necklace - materials such as broken bakelite shards, gypsum, colored plastic from combs, pails or restaurant spoons and forks, crushed turquoise chips, while old phonograph records or car battery casings were used as the backing material. These necklaces were sold to tourists along the highway or at RR stops for as little as $1 during the Great Depression. They've become extremely collectible. If you are collecting these types of Santo Domingo depression folk art necklaces, this one would be a wonderful addition to your collection.
Measures 21 inches long from end of beads to end of beads. This does not include the extra length of the cotton twine. The inlaid thunderbird is 2-3/4 by 1-1/2 inches. This necklace is from my personal collection of Thunderbird necklaces. (I am beginning to downsize my collection.)
Excellent vintage condition, with no damage or missing pieces. Strung on original cotton twine. circa 1930's.
You can purchase the optional glass collector case with it for an additional charge of $7.50 (to cover shipping).