HEAVY LITTLE OBJECTS

#72 :: Navajo Silver Lizard

A Navajo silversmith cast this in sterling silver. The Dine (DIN-eh) as they prefer to call themselves, make a living doing business with each other, ranching, running stores and schools and businesses - and with tourists crossing tribal lands, by selling crafts like this from roadside stands in and around Monument Valley and the Four Corners area. From the tourist's side of the equation, it's a tiny glint of cunning grace in the dusty, ragged glory of a southwest road trip. From the artisan's viewpoint, one I can only guess that it's a symbol of considerable significance, crafted with industry and art, in a form that's easy to duplicate and sure to sell for a good price.