STUNNING STEER
This little vintage ring is the work of renowned jewelry artisan couple Helen & Lincoln Zunie, well known for their inlay work, usually in cow and horse motifs. This piece is a depiction of a Hereford steer beautifully crafted in chip inlay style using stones of turquoise, mother of pearl, and black onyx, set in sterling silver and accented witha row of silver drops. The signature inlay of these late artisans has begun to be recognized and sought after posthumously, so their work will be collectors.
Lincoln Zunie (1938-1983, Zuni). Active 1960s-1970s. Channel inlay; figural inlay, often horse or cow motifs. Father of Patty Zunie Edaakie. Brother of Joe and William Zunie. Lincoln Zunie shared the stamp with his wife Helen Zunie (d).
Mark: H-L ZUNIE
Helen Zunie (? – 2008; Zuni). Active 1960s – 1970s. Channel inlay, figural inlay, often horse or cow motifs. Helen Zunie shared the stamp with her husband, Lincoln Zunie.
Mark: H – L ZUNIE
- artist: Helen & Lincoln Zunie
- affiliation: Zuni
- hallmarks: not marked but is the work of Helen & Lincoln Zuni
- materials: sterling silver, turquoise, mother of pearl, onyx
- size: 8
- measurements: 1 1/4″ x 1″
- weight: 6 grams
- nice vintage condition
- stones are secure in their settings
- abrasions and surface wear commensurate with age
- silver has a nice patina
- wear from use
- appears to have been converted
- style: JR1186