Verdite Shalako by Eric Martinez

A large Shalako carved by Eric Martinez; the son of Florentino Martinez, created from a large piece of dark green verdite with all the incised detail that both carvers are known for. The big bird has an eighth inch gauge sterling silver pin inlaid to the bottom of the robe - then it is inlaid to a big piece of green and white veined verdite. This regal Shalako has an inlaid beak and headdress with incised ceremonial robe - delivered to Sunshine Studio by Eric's cousin; Esteban Najera in late September of 2019. There are 6 Shalako, 11 foot tall birds that dance at the Zuni most sacred Winter Solstice ceremony held usually on the first weekend of December. The birds symbolically bring the new seeds to Zuni for the spring planting. The ceremony involves all night dancing and races the following morning. Artist: Eric Martinez (signed) Size: Shalako:1-1/4 in. wide x 2-1/4 in. long x 7-1/4 in. tall, Base: 4 in. long x 3-1/4 in. wide x 7-1/4 in. tall #54232