Sibert and Janita Kallestewa — Zuni Silversmiths
Sibert and Janita Kallestewa are a Zuni couple who share one stamp. Bille Hougart's Native American and Southwestern Silver Hallmarks lists Sibert Kallestewa as Zuni, active since the 1950s in inlay, and Janita Kallestewa as Zuni, active since the 1970s in cluster work, needlepoint and inlay (Hougart 2022, pp. 166–167).
Theda and Michael Bassman's Zuni Jewelry pictures channel inlay earrings of turquoise made in the 1960s by Janita and Sibert Kallestewa (Bassman and Bassman 2006, p. 29).
Their hallmark
Hougart gives their shared mark as S K J (Hougart 2022, pp. 166–167), and Schaaf's hallmark index records SKJ for Sibert and Janita Kallestewa (Schaaf 2003, p. 188).
Own a piece with this mark, or know more about this artist? Contact T.Skies.
References
- Hougart, Bille. Native American and Southwestern Silver Hallmarks: Silversmiths, Designers, Guilds and Traders. 5th edition. Washington, DC: BilleHougartBooks, 2022.
- Bassman, Theda, and Michael Bassman. Zuni Jewelry. Photographs by Gene Balzer. Revised and expanded 3rd edition. Atglen, PA: Schiffer Publishing, 2006.
- Schaaf, Gregory, with Angie Yan Schaaf. American Indian Jewelry I: 1,200 Artist Biographies, ca. 1800-present. American Indian Art Series, Vol. 5. Santa Fe: CIAC Press, 2003.
This profile is maintained in support of Native American silversmiths and compiled from published references. See something inaccurate, or want to add to it? Contact us.