(Sicilian, 1899-1964). One of only two non-native jewelers TMT regularly carries (along with Eveli Sabatie,) and a seminal figure in the silverwork of the Southwest. He came to Santa Fe in 1924, and eventually opened stores in Santa Fe and Tucson that both employed Native silversmiths. He was a teacher and mentor to an entire generation of Indian silversmiths, including Lewis Lomay and Julian Lovato--all of whom carried his melding of European techniques and designs with Southwestern forms and materials in new and innovative directions.
(Sicilian, 1899-1964). One of only two non-native jewelers TMT regularly carries (along with Eveli Sabatie,) and a seminal figure in the silverwork of the Southwest. He came to Santa Fe in 1924, and eventually opened stores in Santa Fe and Tucson that both employed Native silversmiths. He was a teacher and mentor to an entire generation of Indian silversmiths, including Lewis Lomay and Julian Lovato--all of whom carried his melding of European techniques and designs with Southwestern forms and materials in new and innovative directions.
Available works:
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.
B NC/7
A very fine hallmarked bracelet by Frank Patania Sr. with 15 nicely matched turquoise. Inside size 5 1/2" with a 7/8" opening (can be adjusted), width 1 1/2", weight 60 grams.