Item No.: TMT200401
Paul Saufkie (1898–1993), from Shungopavi, learned silversmithing from his father in the 1920s. After World War II, he taught silversmithing to Hopi veterans through a program supported by the GI Bill.
In 1949, together with Hopi painter Fred Kabotie and a curator at the Museum of Northern Arizona, he established the Hopi Arts and Crafts Guild. By providing skills, materials, funding, workspaces, tools and sales outlets, he helped nurture many Hopi jewelry artists.
Paul continued making his own work, although his jewelry production declined significantly after the 1950s. The overlay technique developed through their initiative became a defining feature of Hopi jewelry, making him a foundational figure in the field.
This bracelet bears both the Hopi Guild and Paul's hallmarks, as shown in the product photographs, and is believed to date from the guild's early years.
Material: Sterling silver
Stone: Turquoise (probably Blue Gem)
Dimensions: Inside circumference 14.8 cm; maximum width 1.9 cm; opening 2.9 cm; thickness 0.3 cm
Artist: Paul Saufkie Sr. (Hopi)
