Zuni Sterling Silver & Multi-Stone Inlay Wagon Bolo Tie, Signed Joe Zunie View Watchlist >
Seller Accepts Credit Cards
Payment and pickup instructions will be available on your invoice (under "My Account") at the conclusion of this auction.
Pickup
$0.00
Signature Confirmed Shipping
$12.00
($3.00 as additional item)
Lot # HJ124
System ID # 23895589
Start Date
End Date
0 Watching
Zuni Sterling Silver & Multi-Stone Inlay Wagon Bolo Tie, Signed Joe Zunie
A whimsical and finely crafted Zuni bolo tie by noted silversmith Joe Zunie, depicting a covered wagon in sterling silver with intricate stone inlay. The design features turquoise, spiny oyster, onyx, and mother-of-pearl, arranged in bold geometric panels that highlight the wagon form. The silver wheels add a unique kinetic touch—designed to spin freely. The piece is completed with a braided black leather cord, sterling silver tips, and wagon wheel dangles.
The reverse is stamped Joe Zunie, JZJ, and fitted with a standard Bennett slide. This work reflects the Zuni tradition of figural inlay, blending artistry with storytelling through jewelry.
Details
- Artist: Joe Zunie (Zuni silversmith)
- Hallmarks: Joe Zun (partial), JZJ
- Metal: Sterling silver
- Materials: Turquoise, spiny oyster, onyx, mother-of-pearl
- Motif: Covered wagon with spinning wheels
- Cord: Braided black leather
- Tips: Sterling silver cones with wagon wheel dangles
- Slide clasp: Bennett Pat. Pend. (commercially produced, standard)
- Bale opening: 4.6 mm
Dimensions & Specifications
- Bolo slide: approx. 2.25 in x 2.5 in x 0.4 in (5.7 cm x 6.4 cm x 1 cm)
- Cord length: approx. 40 in (101.6 cm) including tips
- Weight: 66.15 g (2.33 oz)
- Bale opening: 4.6 mm
Condition
Good vintage condition. Stones are secure in settings. Wheels spin freely. Silver shows natural patina consistent with age; polishing left to buyer’s discretion. Leather cord intact and supple.
Artist Note – Joe Zunie (Zuni Silversmith)
Joe Zunie (d. mid-1970s) was a celebrated Zuni silversmith renowned for his intricate channel inlay and whimsical figural designs. Known as “the master of the covered wagon,” he often created bolo ties and pendants featuring wagons with articulated wheels, a signature of his artistry. Working alongside his wife Pauline Dishta of the famous Dishta family, and related to other noted Zuni artists Lincoln and William Zunie, Joe’s pieces reflect both innovation and tradition. His hallmark “J.Z.J.” appears on later works. Examples of his jewelry are documented in Zuni: The Art & The People, Schaaf’s American Indian Jewelry, and Hougart’s Native American & Southwestern Silver Hallmarks. Today, his work remains highly collectible and is featured in prominent auctions.
A rare and playful Zuni figural bolo tie by Joe Zunie—an iconic example of Southwestern inlay artistry and a standout addition to any Native American jewelry collection.
Our Commitment to You:
Customer Guarantee
At Mesilla Valley Estate Sales, we take pride in the authenticity and quality of each item we offer. Here's our commitment to you:
- Authenticity Assurance: We guarantee this item to be authentic, handpicked from pre-owned estate collections.
- Accurate Description: We guarantee that the type of metal, weight, and maker of each item are described accurately on our website. We ensure thorough verification of these specifics before listing.
- Review at Pickup: You will have the opportunity to review your item during the designated pickup time. We encourage you to inspect your purchase to confirm that it matches the description provided. Please note, once you leave the property with the item, it is considered yours.
Please Note:
- Diamond and gemstone weights, colors, and clarity grades are approximate and determined while mounted.
- Treatment of colored stones, pearls, and other gemstones to enhance their appearance is common; these treatments may or may not be noted.
In the rare event of a typographical error in our listings, including gem descriptions and pricing, we reserve the right to correct such errors. If an item is sold based on incorrect information, we will provide a full refund to the buyer and adjust the product information accordingly.
Our guarantee aligns with our pickup policy, ensuring you have the opportunity to review your purchase at the designated pickup time and location. It's important to understand that once the item is picked up, the sale is final, and the item cannot be returned.
We believe that the jewelry you purchase will become cherished heirlooms, admired for generations.
Your satisfaction and trust in our offerings are paramount to us.
