Museum-Worthy Art Tafoya Rare Early Masterpiece for Collectors

  

Museum-Worthy Art Tafoya Rare Early Masterpiece for Collectors. Art Tafoya, a master silversmith, wields artistic power through traditional silver hammering methods.

Continuously honoring the legacy of early masters, he meticulously crafts his own stamps and dies. His stamp work boasts clarity, precision, and a deep-rooted connection to tradition.

The dense silver, resembling hammered leather but exuding an even more profound allure, reflects his mastery. Tafoya's journey began at twelve, learning silversmithing basics from a stable's blacksmith. Guided by Carlos White Eagle, a student of Navajo's Fred Peshlakai, he achieved excellence in crafting handmade stamps and dies, even identifying unsigned Peshlakai pieces. Specializing in hand-stamped jewelry, he pays homage to Peshlakai's style while imprinting it with his own uniqueness.

With global recognition, Tafoya spent 25 years as a Knott's Berry Farm silversmith before relocating to New Mexico. His contributions grace the Albuquerque Museum and the Grove Encyclopedia of American Art. Notably, he features in Navajo Silversmith Fred Peshlakai, His Life and Art. Rare Early Masterpiece for Discerning Collectors.

Presented here is the zenith of Tafoya's creativity - a bold and remarkable creation. Furthermore, this piece represents his early work, showcasing his coveted early maker's mark. A museum-worthy item, it seamlessly fuses Southwest designs like Dine, Zuni, and his distinct Yakui style - all meticulously fashioned using traditional techniques. Among Tafoya's rarest and earliest pieces, this unique artifact is a must-have for seasoned collectors.

Inside circumference measures approximately 6 1/4" long, including the 1 1/8" gap. Entire length is about 3 1/8 long, excluding the turquoise leaf charm.