Eddy Beyuka — Zuni Silversmith Hallmark
Eddy Beyuka's hallmark as photographed on an authenticated piece. © Turquoise Skies Inc.
Zuni · documented in the T.Skies hallmark library
Eddy Beyuka is documented in Hougart as Edward A. Beyuka (1921–2002); "Eddy," "Eddie," and "Edward" are all common variants of the same name in the documentary record. This identification is supported by Schaaf's index, which lists "Eddie Beyuka" in the same listing cluster as Christine, Filbert, and Jonathan Beyuka — consistent with the Hougart family structure.
Edward A. Beyuka was one of the most significant Zuni inlay silversmiths of the twentieth century. He produced mosaic work from 1951 and, toward the end of his career (c. 2000), specialized in large, complex bracelets and bolos. He served as the registered agent for the Zuni Craftsmen Cooperative Association (ZCCA), a role that placed him at the institutional heart of Zuni silver craft organization. His work included figural inlay in silver and gold, with kachina imagery among his documented subjects.
Beyuka had two children who became silversmiths in their own right: Philbert (Bert) Beyuka and Jonathan Beyuka (born 1953). His former wife, Madeline Beyuka (born 1935), was also a mosaic inlay silversmith and sister of Angela Cellicion; some inlay work was probably collaborative between Edward and Madeline. He was also the father of Janet Amesoli.
The mark
Per Hougart: Marks: EA B (may be with Zuni); E. BEYUKA; an eagle [image mark].
What is known
- Born 1921; died 2002; Zuni
- Specialties: figural inlay; silver and gold; kachina imagery; mosaic work; large bracelets and bolos
- Active: mosaic work 1951–c.2000
- Served as registered agent for the Zuni Craftsmen Cooperative Association (ZCCA)
- Family: father of Philbert (Bert) Beyuka and Jonathan Beyuka (1953–); former husband of Madeline Beyuka; father of Janet Amesoli
- Marks: EA B (may be with Zuni); E. BEYUKA; eagle image mark
- Some inlay work may be collaborative with Madeline Beyuka
Know more about Eddy? Let us know.
References
- Hougart, Bille. Native American and Southwestern Silver Hallmarks, 5th ed. (2022), p. 60. "Edward A. Beyuka (1921-2002, Zuni). Figural inlay; silver, gold; kachinas. Edward Beyuka produced mosaic work 1951–c.2000, he specialized in large, complex bracelets and bolos. Father of Philbert and Jonathan Beyuka. Some inlay work was probably collaborative with his former wife Madeline Beyuka. Father of Janet Amesoli. He was the registered agent for the Zuni Craftsmen Cooperative Association (ZCCA). Marks: EA B (may be with Zuni); E. BEYUKA; an eagle."
- Schaaf, Gregory. American Indian Jewelry I: 1,200 Artist Biographies. Index listing: "Eddie Beyuka" (page number not recoverable from the source; entry truncated).