Navajo Canteen Rocker Engraved Snake and Cross

tem: 1740

Origin: Navajo
Date: 1900-1920
Media: Silver, 71 grams
Dimensions: 2 1/8′ diameter, 3.5″ tall, 5/8″ thick

Description:  This is a jewel of a canteen – the best one I have ever had.  The wear to the surface is wonderful, and it weighs a heavy 71 grams.  Both sides as well as the cross cap are rocker engraved.   One side is a doubled edged cross, similar to those found on the Navajo weavings.  The other side shows a rattlesnake encircling the canteen with the rattler tail at the bottom and the head towards the center top with a forked tongue sticking out.  The design of the snake includes diamond shapes in the body.  The cross shaped cap is very finely engraved with the most miniscule marks bordering on all sides.  The cap fits snuggly into the neck.  The cap is attached to the body with a piece of well worn hide.

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Condition: Condition is excellent.

Provenance: From a private collection in New Mexico

Price: Sold