A silver overlay necklace by Native American Hopi artisan Victor Coochwytewa. The necklace features five panels and a smooth oval chain link with a hook clasp. The silver overlay pictorials scenes depict farmers and growing corn / maize. The center panel depicts Kachin Mana; the Kachina Corn Maiden who purifies the women that grind corn for ceremonies. 
The necklace is stamped on the reverse with Victor Coochwytewa raincloud mark along with the Kopavi shop mark.

Victor Coochwytewa (1922-2011) was one of the premier ground breaking Hopi artists. He used his knowledge of leather working to add additional texture to the newly developing Hopi overlay process which has become a feature of signature Hopi jewelry known today. Coochwytewa won top awards throughout his life that included the Heard Museum, the Santa Fe Indian Market, the Gallup New Mexico Intertribal Ceremonial, and the Museum of Northern Arizona. He started a working relationship with Kopavi in 1974 who went on to open Kopavi Gallery in 1976 in Sedona, Arizona. Victor Coochwytewa was a staple craftsman and many of his pieces were presented in the shop. 

Victor Coochwytewa has been quoted saying "Jewelry is my hobby; Corn is my work!” as he spent most of his time as a farmer. He knew the dependence that his crops had on rain and had a fascination with the rainclouds. He often drew on inspiration from his own life to depict the scenes in his jewelry. 

Clasp Type: Hook.
Metal: Sterling silver.
Weight: 69.3 dwt.
Measurements: 17" long. The largest panel is 1 5/8" wide.
Markings: Raincloud hallmark, Kopavi Gallery hallmark and C symbol. Excellent condition