49: MITCHELL ZEPHIER LAKOTA SIOUX INLAID BRASS BUCKLE

The multi-technique buckle in oval format is centered by an airborne bull bison decorated by stamped and stippled detail along with an inlaid horn. The bison leaps over bezel set semi-precious stones within a sunken, patinated roundel framed on two sides by cut-back feather designs filled with inlaid enamels, the lower edge embellished with half-sun stamp work. The work is signed and dated 1981 verso. Having been given the name Pretty Voice Hawk by his grandfather in family tradition, Mitchell signs his work PVH.

Mitchell Zephier is a well-traveled and long serving Lakota Sioux artisan and master metal craftsman who has studied with other masters while himself, in Lakota tradition, instructed others in creating works inspired by Lakota tradition.
Measures 3 x 4.25 inches.
Very good condition throughout, no damage, repair, loss or wear.
Provenance: The 40 year collection of Father Tom Wiederholt, Kansas City, Missouri. Tom was a close personal friend of scholar and curator Ralph 'Ted' Coe who advised Tom on most of his acquisitions.
$200 - $250