(Zuni, 1917-1969). His work is the most distinctive of all the Zuni silversmiths. He was best known for setting nuggets of turquoise and uncut branches of coral into silver, though he also did some inlay work. His pieces often show stamped silver balls interspersed among the stones. His later pieces are sometimes hallmarked, though his unique style makes identifying his work relatively easy even without the hallmark. (His family worked in a similar style for some time after his death, but using lighter silver and lesser turquoise.)
(Zuni, 1917-1969). His work is the most distinctive of all the Zuni silversmiths. He was best known for setting nuggets of turquoise and uncut branches of coral into silver, though he also did some inlay work. His pieces often show stamped silver balls interspersed among the stones. His later pieces are sometimes hallmarked, though his unique style makes identifying his work relatively easy even without the hallmark. (His family worked in a similar style for some time after his death, but using lighter silver and lesser turquoise.)
Available works:
PI NC/3
A classic openwork pin, with Simplicio's trademark stamped silver balls and notched bezels. 2 15/16" x 1 15/16", weight 28 grams.
N SC/10
Strongly attributed to Simplicio, based on the overall design and presence of stamped silver balls. Squash blossom-type necklaces by him are quite rare, and this is a marvelous one. Straight length 26", naja measures 3" across, total weight 171 grams.