Small Overlay Buckle with Kokopeli

This Hopi-made sterling silver overlay belt buckle features a Kokopelli figure framed by geometric overlay elements and oxidized recessed backgrounds. The buckle has a softly curved rectangular shape with a brushed satin finish that highlights the contrast between the raised silver imagery and the darkened overlay work. The Kokopelli design in the recessed area was created using the Hopi Overlay technique, where a top layer with a cut-out design is soldered to a solid base plate. Before the bottom silver plate is joined, a meticulous technique called "matting" is used to create tiny, intentional indentations (seen as tiny etches), catching light from within the oxidized recess to add depth to the design.

Designed to fit a 1" belt receiver, this piece measures approximately 3" x 1 1/2".

Materials: Sterling silver