Dark Mother-of-Pearl Maiden Figure by Sandra Quandelacy

A dark mother-of-pearl maiden figure carved by Sandra Quandelacy depicting two corn maidens on one side and two mothers on the dark iridescent side - all have jet inlaid features. The maidens opposite each other from side to side have share the same hair style; so two have long flowing hair and two share a whorl squash blossom hair style that suggests these two maidens are single. Sandra has nicely incised the corn rows then inlaid a few dots to represent kernals; utilizing bits of turquoise, jet, lapis and orange spiny oyster. Then Sandra inlaid a large purple alunite corn cob in front of the pair - surrounded by turquoise chips that symbolize water. There are five incised dragonflies inlaid with jet floating around the two corn maidens. On the opposite side The faces are carved in the bronzy gray iridescent area with the turquoise and apple coral pendants standing out. There are five incised dragonflies on this side of the carving as well - also inlaid with jet. Maidens symbolize abundance, fertility and feminine energy and corn maidens are revered in Zuni for giving up their life to help sustain the Zuni tribe with their corn bodies. Artist: Sandra Quandelacy (signed) Size: 1-3/4 in. wide x 1-5/8 in. deep x 2-3/4 in. tall #63169