This is a vintage Zuni Hand Made Multi Gem Inlay 4-piece ranger buckle set plus black Western Belt. The buckle set was created by Helen & Lincoln Zunie and it features Helen & Lincoln Zunie's classic cow (steer) design. Inlaid with Turquoise, Coral, Spiny Oyster, Jet and Mother of Pearl; The piece is a stunning work of art.
The artists, Helen and Lincoln Zunie, are nationally-known, Native American Zuni Artists. They began creating beautiful jewelry in the early 1970's and no Zuni collection can be considered complete without a piece of their work. Their hallmark HL Zunie, stands for both Helen and Lincoln. Lincoln is the brother of silversmiths William and Joe Zunie. I understand that Helen is deceased, and due to Lincoln's advanced age, I don't imagine this buckle is being made anymore. This piece is estimated to be from the 1980's. Do not miss this opportunity to own a piece of historic Zuni inlay art.
The colorful channel inlay is impeccable! The main part of the buckle measures 4 by 2-1/4, there are two inlaid keepers, and an inlaid tip. This set will best fit a ranger belt with a smaller dimension of 1 inch wide. The black full grain cowhide ranger belt is 1-1/2 inch wide at the widest point and fits a waist from 36" to 40". The leather belt is in excellent shape!
Hallmarked H-L ZUNIE. circa 1980's. Excellent condition!