Ketoh Inspired Heavy Stamp Shaped Cuff (HSSC) by Thomas Curtis

A very unique example of Thomas Curtis's work that shows his mastery and design in many specific ways. I broadly categorize this piece as a Heavy stamp shaped cuff (HSSC) but it is much wider that the other collection example, sitting at 1-1/4 across the face and shanks, tapering to 5/8 at the tips. The center is a mirror polished diamond shape with filed sunbursts spreading outward. The shank transition is the most interesting aspect; symmetrical openwork, with arms curling out from a center and ending in knobs, classic ketoh style. Ketohs were traditionally tufa cast, and the same branching, pierced forms carried over into cast cuffs. What’s distinctive here is that Curtis took a cast-tradition form and built it from heavy fabricated silver, then layered his own stamping on top. He's clearly drawing inspiration from Navajo master silversmiths from the 1890s to 1940s. The piece is hallmarked with a "T. Curtis" within a sunburst Navajo stamp, 

Dimensions

• Width: 1-1/4" at center, tapering to 5/8"
• Weight: 100 grams