Northwest Coast Native American Dragonfly Pendant

Description

Created by Canadian First Nations artist Val Malesku, this sterling silver Dragonfly pendant is both delicate and detailed. Measuring 1 inch tall by 1.5 inches wide, this piece displays a fusion of natural realism and Northwest Indigenous formline design. Chain not included. The dragonfly is an element of the air, and is a symbol of change. It appears in some cultures as a crest symbol, and it also appears in shamanic contexts. Amongst the Haida, the Dragonfly is the only crest symbol that is an insect. Dragonfly is identified by its large eyes, double wings and prominent thorax. In some depictions, Dragonfly is seen with a proboscis, like Butterfly. Dragonflies are fast and elegant, and are often used as a symbol for dynamism and transition.
Val Malesku has traveled throughout BC, and has been living on Haida Gwaii since the 1970s. She has been a carver and painter, and began working in silver and gold in 1981. Val apprenticed with renowned Haida artist Bill Reid. Her unique designs combine the classic with contemporary in Cree and Northwest Coast styles. In 2005, she was featured in the
Changing Hands: Art Without Reservation 2
exhibition at the Museum of Arts and Design in New York, NY. In 2013, Val released her first limited edition print, and in 2014, she released two open edition prints.
"dragonfly totem", "native dragonfly", "dragonfly spirit", "silver dragonfly", "native american dragonfly"