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Navajo A&C Hand Crafted Hammered Copper Art Chalice Goblet Turquoise Inlay Begay
$ 173.71
- Description
- Size Guide
Description
For sale here is an AMAZING hand crafted copper chalice or drinking vessel displaying a Turquoise stone set deeply into a recessed setting of copper on one side and sporting a humorous large-nosed face with inset green eyes om the other.Well hammered, well chased, well designed, and well executed, this piece displays well as a piece of contemporary Native American Indian Artwork. It is extensively tooled with moons and half-moons, star shapes, and miscellaneous facial features and random designs.
I can't decide which side I like best, so I turn the piece frequently. I suspect the face is meant to be the primary "front", but the turquoise and the tooling on the back make it just as appealing to look at. The base is two-ply copper allowing for dramatic framing of the turquoise stone and other design "shadow-boxing" at the rear seam.
Construction consists of three separate sections - the top bowl, a central collar and the flared base.
All 3 pieces are extensively hand worked. The pieces are held together with a long central screw (bolt). There is an old auction label on the base (shown in the pictures) and also an impressed maker's mark. A quick google search turned up hits on Omar Begay and Omer Begay but nothing discussing their training in coppersmithing. This quality chalice shows a high degree of training, talent and experience and was crafted by an experienced and very creative Navajo metalsmith. Further research might associate the mark on this piece with a well-known artist. There is too much talent here to be so obscure.
Measuring 5.75" tall x 5.25" diameter at the top.
Please examine pictures and feel free to comment or ask questions.
I would appreciate hearing from anyone who might have information concerning this talented artist! Thanks.
NOTE: Sorry, I only ship within the USA and Canada. I am happy to discuss exceptions on a case-by-case basis if you are interested in this item.
I've been specializing in quality art and antiques for the past 40 years. I am proud to offer some of the nicer examples of antiques in their diverse categories. My prices are well researched and very competitive, but I am happy to consider all offers. I list to sell.
Thank you for your interest and for looking at my auctions. All of my auctions are guaranteed!