Description: Vintage Navajo Whirling Log / Swastika Turquoise Hand Stamped Silver Bracelet Cuff 2.5” by 2”. Weighs 23.6 grams and is tested to be at least 90% coin silver. Not marked; tested to be at least coin (90%) silver. Probably circa 1930s, this piece is unsigned by the artist. Many of the pieces had been melted post WW2. This piece has some ability to be resized. The symbol commonly known as the swastika has a long and varied history across many cultures, including among the Navajo people, where it is often referred to as the "whirling log." Before its appropriation by the Nazis in the early 20th century, this symbol had very positive connotations in Navajo culture, as well as in other indigenous cultures around the world. For the Navajo, the whirling log is associated with a narrative found in one of their healing ceremonies, the "Night Chant" or "Yeibichai." In this story, the hero is brought to the river where he sees gods or "Yeis" sitting on logs. As the logs spin in the water, the motion represents the movement of the sun and the cycle of the day, symbolizing healing, restoration, and the harmony of life. Navajo artisans incorporated the whirling log into various forms of art and jewelry, using it as a motif on baskets, blankets, and silverwork. This usage was prevalent and respected as a sacred symbol of well-being and good fortune. However, with the rise of the Nazi party and their adoption of the swastika as their emblem, the original meanings of the symbol were overshadowed by its new associations with hatred, bigotry, and genocide. Due to these negative connotations, post World War II, the Navajo and many other cultures ceased using the symbol, replacing it in their arts and crafts with other designs that carried similar meanings of harmony and healing without the painful associations. All items, unless stated otherwise, are previously loved and used. Therefore, they inevitably have scratches and slight imperfection (not brand new). We could miss dents/cracks and such imperfections are not included in the description wordings, simply because we didn't notice. Please refer to pictures for condition as it is exactly what you will get. If You have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask us before the purchase.
Price: 499 USD
Location: Phoenixville, Pennsylvania
End Time: 2025-01-01T17:33:56.000Z
Shipping Cost: 0 USD
Product Images
Item Specifics
Return shipping will be paid by: Buyer
All returns accepted: Returns Accepted
Item must be returned within: 14 Days
Refund will be given as: Money Back
Return policy details:
Origin: Navajo
Provenance: Ownership History Not Available
Tribal Affiliation: Navajo
Artisan: Unsigned
Country/Region of Manufacture: United States
Culture: Native American: US
Handmade: Yes
