(Navajo, 1952-2011) Lee’s great claim to fame is that he popularized the “storyteller” style of pictorial silversmithing, and his pieces have a humor and character about them that is extremely appealing to collectors. Many of his later pieces were done in collaboration with his son, Russell.
(Navajo, 1952-2011) Lee’s great claim to fame is that he popularized the “storyteller” style of pictorial silversmithing, and his pieces have a humor and character about them that is extremely appealing to collectors. Many of his later pieces were done in collaboration with his son, Russell.
Available works:
B 3299
One of his famous reservation scene bracelets, with a wonderfully charming panorama of life in and near the hogan. The fireplace inside the hogan is copper, and the dog faithfully follows the shepherd and her flock. Hallmarked. Unusual small size. Inside size 4 15/16” with a 1” opening (can be adjusted), width 1 1/8”, weight 64 grams.
GH/47
Ex-Geraldine Howard collection. Clarence Lee was the great master of the reservation scene, like is shown on this hallmarked bracelet. Complete with 14k sun and copper buttes. The more you look at the scenes, the cuter it becomes. Inside size 4 15/16” with a 7/8” opening (can be adjusted), width 1 1/2”, weight 113 grams.
GH/43
What a wild and wonderful masterpiece by Clarence Lee! Turquoise water in the barrel, coral taillights and cat’s eye headlights, and wheels that spin all add to the whimsy of this absolutely charming piece. There are even applied silver horses on the inside! Hallmarked. Inside size 5 3/4” with a 1 1/8” opening (can be adjusted), width 2”, weight 246 grams.
B MH/51
An unusual hallmarked piece by Lee—most of his work is done in relief, rather than the negative overlay of this Shalako and dancers scene. The 14k sunface on one end is a nice touch. Inside size 4 15/16” with a 1” opening (can be adjusted), width 1 1/16”, weight 51 grams.