RARE Museum 1930’S C. G. WALLACE Navajo Signed Sterling & Turquoise Ring Size 7

Born in Richmond County, North Carolina in 1898, C. Wallace found his life’s calling at Zuni Pueblo, New Mexico at the age of 20. In 1918, Wallace arrived in Gallup, New Mexico and in 1919 he was hired by Louis Ilfeld at the Ilfeld Company to work at their trading post in Zuni, NM. After acquiring his trading license at Zuni Pueblo, Wallace set out to transform the lives of the Zuni people – 1,600 Zunis at the time – by encouraging them to produce high-quality silver jewelry with stone inlay for the tourist trade. Desiring a strong and fruitful relationship with the Zuni people, Wallace dedicated himself to becoming “totally acquainted” with the entire Zuni village (Wallace’s own words). “He spent’many nights each week’ after the store closed visiting the Indians in their homes and seeking to build their trust in him”. The 1920s and 1930s were years dedicated to a new way of thinking – despite tough financial times and a changing market ie. The Great Depression, the arrival of the Santa Fe Railroad & Route 66 Wallace saw opportunity for increased tourist trade and jewelry sales for Zuni Pueblo. Wallace promoted the use of traditional motifs as well, bringing over 600 examples of old pottery and other artifacts to Zuni artists as sources for inspiration. In a thirty-year span, between 1920 and 1950, Zuni jewelry-related tribal income increased from four to 65 percent. G Wallace jewelry is currently highly collectible upon many reputable dealers & collectors and you’ll also see his pieces displayed in several museums across the Nation. Wallace collectors piece is also signed on the back with a picto spade clover. This ring is roughly a size 7 and weighs a solid 10+ grams. This “must have” collectors piece will make a great addition to any Native American collection. Take advantage of this rare opportunity. Thanks for Looking and please make sure to check out my other listings.