Image 1 of 1
Deyuse, Leekya
(Zuni, 1889-1966). Commonly known as Leekya. Known as "Old Man Leekya" and the grand master of Zuni fetish carving, his carvings have a subtlety and softness of line that distinguishes them from the work of others. He also did very good inlay work early in his career. Never used any sort of hallmark, but his work is quite distinctive.
(Zuni, 1889-1966). Commonly known as Leekya. Known as "Old Man Leekya" and the grand master of Zuni fetish carving, his carvings have a subtlety and softness of line that distinguishes them from the work of others. He also did very good inlay work early in his career. Never used any sort of hallmark, but his work is quite distinctive.
Available works:
GH 140
Ex-Geraldine Howard collection—a rare example of Leekya’s mastery. Gorgeous birds and tiger-striped wolves on this fantastic necklace, one of the best fetish necklaces we have ever seen. Leekya Deyuse (Zuni, 1889-1966) was commonly known as Leekya. Also known as "Old Man Leekya" and the grand master of Zuni fetish carving, his carvings have a subtlety and softness of line that distinguishes them from the work of others. He also did very good inlay work early in his career. Never used any sort of hallmark, but his work is quite distinctive.
FT 1286
An early bear by the great carver Leekya Deyuse, with wonderful features. 2 1/4" long.
GH 21
Ex-Geraldine Howard collection—a rare example of Leekya’s mastery. Squash blossom necklaces with carvings by Leekya almost never come to market, so this is a rare opportunity to own a piece of Zuni history! Straight length 26”, naja measures 2 1/8” across, weight 157 grams. Leekya Deyuse (Zuni, 1889-1966) was commonly known as Leekya. Also known as "Old Man Leekya" and the grand master of Zuni fetish carving, his carvings have a subtlety and softness of line that distinguishes them from the work of others. He also did very good inlay work early in his career. Never used any sort of hallmark, but his work is quite distinctive.
PI PL/2
Totally cute—a Leekya platform bird perched on a nice piece of coral, with turquoise off to the side, all backed with silver. Bird measures 1 1/4” long, total weight 11 grams.
GH/139
Two strands of nice red coral and turquoise strung with 17 Leekya Deyuse fetishes, including wolves, bears, birds and a central turquoise leaf. There are two platform birds on this piece. Artistically superior, and very well put together. Straight length 28”, central leaf measures 1 1/8” long, weight 70 grams.
KN 1595
A very fine hallmarked box, set with a serpentine Leekya bear with turquoise eyes. A rare and wonderful combination—Patania Sr. was known to buy work from Zuni artists for his boxes, but a full Leekya fetish on one of his boxes is a rare treasure. Note the special silver rings made for the bear’s feet. Box measures 4 1/8” x 3 1/8”, bear measures 2” long, total weight 194 grams.
GH 208
Ex-Geraldine Howard collection—very nicely made, and easy to wear as either a pin or a pendant. Leekya Deyuse (Zuni, 1889-1966) was commonly known as Leekya. Also known as "Old Man Leekya" and the grand master of Zuni fetish carving, his carvings have a subtlety and softness of line that distinguishes them from the work of others. He also did very good inlay work early in his career. Never used any sort of hallmark, but his work is quite distinctive.