Important Zuni Belt Buckle Mosaic Inlay Rainbowman Rainbow Man Knifewing 1940S

Description

Welcome!
This is a rare buckle from the 1940s with a knifewing figure in mosaic inlay, stone to stone inlay and it's just gorgeous. The colors and the choice of materials is unusual and it's hard to capture the mystical beauty of this piece in pictures. It is possibly pink mussel shell or abalone in the background, in a cobblestone appearance. The figure is an older style of work with deep rich Blue Gem turquoise, jet, mother of pearl and a soft red abalone. The colors are all soft and rich at the same time. I really have never seen a buckle like this. There are pieces in the CG Wallace catalog that are similar and I believe it was probably made by one of the great CG Wallace masters.  It's all hand made with a wire leather holder that was hand made rather than the commercial kind that swivels and which became available later.
This beautiful buckle measures slightly less than 2" long and over 1-1/4" wide. This should work for a belt size 1" or 1-1/8" in width. There are the initials ATI scratched on the back. It's impossible for me to know if this was the artist, owner or trader. I'm not familiar with an artist with those initials. I'd appreciate ideas if someone knows. It's so gorgeous I can see making it into a pin, pendant or necklace. It has a nice solid feel at 19.7 grams. Condition is excellent vintage, wearable and collectible.
This is a great collector's item and a complete joy to own. I can't take my eyes off it and I think you'll feel the same.
Please consider marking me as a favorite seller so you can come back and check things out. Be sure to add me to your
favorites list
!
Take a look at my store.
Yes, I sometimes can take reasonable offers.
I request payment by PayPal in two days, but planned in advance of purchase, alternate payment methods and time payments can generally be arranged.
I generally ship same day. Domestic: FREE Priority shipping with Tracking always and Signature Confirmation included on shipments over 9.
International buyers pay actual shipping cost and are responsible for any customs fees their own countries may apply. Please discuss changing shipping method prior to purchase. My shipping defaults to Express International, which is tracked and insured, but I can use Priority Mail International. It's less expensive and is also tracked. First Class International is no longer offered by the US Postal Service. I charge the actual shipping cost and since shipping to each country may cost a different amount, I will charge a little extra and refund the exact difference once I can put your address in and print a shipping label. I am no longer shipping to Italy and China, but can make exceptions if you speak with me about it, especially if you are a prior customer.
Returns will be accepted for 30 days after your receipt for any reason and without question. Please let me know if you would like to return something. Returns must be in the same condition they were shipped. If I make a significant mistake in a listing I'll always give you a full refund. The 20% restocking fee does not apply when the mistake is mine. I care that you're happy and about my accuracy, and will always stand behind my work. My attributions are guaranteed for my lifetime.
When I include pages from published books in my listings it is in accordance with Fair Use Law, which permits the use of source material for discussion, reference, education and criticism.
Attributions on many of the old pieces of Native American jewelry are sometimes a moving target. All the books have errors, so in addition to counterchecking, I have developed some expertise over the years and I do care about getting it right, so as more information comes to light I update my listings and also get in touch with my previous buyers, to inform them of any changes in attributions. I am sincerely committed to ongoing accuracy.
Everything I sell comes from my personal collection or is something that I would include in my personal collection. Most pieces are museum worthy and gallery suitable, sold to you at great pricing. I vet every item carefully for quality and condition, and offer you the best. I want you to be able to rely on me for top quality, superb items that are often unique and rare examples of old antique vintage southwest, indian, native american and fine gold and gemstones, whether you're starting a collection or adding to one, or want something great to wear or gift. My goal is that all my buyers are delighted, that my special pieces find the right homes.