Necklace, Squash Blossom Style, Inlay, Multi-Stone, Owls, Lebanese Attribution, Old Pawn, 1587

WHOOO WOULDN’T LOVE THIS ONE-OF-A-KIND SQUASH?!

This remarkable mid-century vintage creation is the work of Zuni husband-and-wife duo Blake and Velma Lebanese, who have created a squash blossom necklace unlike any other. The classic “blossoms” have been traded for intricate inlay owls and a complementing two-owl naja, crafted from mother of pearl, abalone, shell, turquoise, black onyx, coral, and peridot. The blossoms are perched (see what we did there?) on a double strand of sterling silver desert pearls. Owls are said to represent wisdom, and you’d be wise to snag this collector’s item sooner rather than later!

Velma Lesansee (Zuni). Active since 1950s. Inlay; dragonflies; hummingbirds; owls. Velma Lesansee shares the stamp with her husband Blake Lesansee. Her daughter is Sensa Eustace.

Marks: V B (conjoined, on an applied disc); V B Lesansee (etched script) 

Blake Lesansee (Zuni).  Active since 1950s. Inlay; dragonflies; hummingbirds; owls. Blake Lesansee shares the stamp with his wife Velma Lesansee. His daughter is Sensa Eustace.

Marks: V B (conjoined, on an applied disc); V B Lesansee (etched script)