Very collectible sterling silver overlay shadowbox pendant, created by Hopi artist Howard Dennis. The pendant features a spider inside the shadowbox. There is a bear, spider web, prayer feathers, round water waves, and more. I was told the symbols represented a migration, coming to a shrine. The overlay work is clean, bold and innovative.
The pendant measures 1-1/2 inch by 1-1/4 inch by 1/8 inch thick and weighs 24 grams. The bale can handle a chain up to 3/8 inch wide.
A 24-inch long handmade sterling silver chain is included. The chain has been oxidized for an antique look.
This pendant necklace was purchased brand new from the Hopi Arts & Crafts Co-Op Guild on Second Mesa, Arizona, in 2005 and has never been worn. Certificate of Authenticity and gift box included. Hallmarked by the artist, Howard Dennis, with his Crow Mother hallmark. Howard is a member of the Squash clan.
About the Hopi Arts & Crafts Silvercraft Co-op Guild:
In 1947, after World War II, returning Hopi servicemen were trained at a silversmithing school founded under the G.I. bill.
The late Paul Saufkie, Sr. was the technical instructor and the late Fred Kobotie, noted Hopi artist and designer, taught design. Although many techniques of making silver were used, the overlay style gradually emerged as the dominate style. This simple, unique, elegant jewelry is now considered essentially the Hopi style of jewelry.
In 1949, they established a guild with its own hallmark. The Guild's purpose was to produce, purchase, promote, sell handcrafts and jewelry and to operate related activities. The Hopi Arts and Crafts Co-op Guild now has its own building on Second Mesa, Arizona, next to the Hopi Cultural Center & Museum. Any craftsman, potter, basketmaker, weaver or silversmith can have his or her work displayed and sold there. Half the building is devoted to work benches and supplies for the silversmiths.
I believe the Guild is now closed. I don't have any further information.