LUNA MOTH AND BUTTERFLY BROOCHES, by Elizabeth Wallace, the former first prize winner at the 2017 Heard Indian Fair. These insects have enameled wings, set with gems, which form the bodies on these stunning pieces. Both are mounted on metal plants. While stylized, these are much more realistic and detailed than the vintage butterfly brooches shown previously. Wallace’s work varies widely in technique, materials and styles, especially her innovative use of enamels, and recently, plique-à-jour technique. WALLACE CICADA BROOCHES, left on display at the Wheelwright Museum in Santa Fe during 2017, with enameled wings, carved shell body; cicada brooch with turquoise body and wings on right; photographed at now closed Heard Museum North in 2012. Note the interesting shadow cast by the mounted cicada. This insect is rarely represented in jewelry in the Southwest United States. 26 ORNAMENT 45.4.2025 HUNTER’S MARIANNE HUNTER S Pearl-Mist Dancer 2234 pendant, enamels over fine silver foils, high karat gold set with pearls, diamonds and delicately painted dragonfly wing veins, 9.0 cm wide (Benesh 2002-2003, Liu 2014). DRAGONFLY PENDANT, CARL AND IRENE CLARK , of the smallest micromosaics, barely millimeters long, made 1990s-2000s, a collaboration between Irene and their late son Carl Jr. While these minute mosaics are being shaped, they are held by fingertips, attesting to the skill of their makers (Benesh-Liu 2023). Photograph by Bill and Michael Faust.
Ornament Magazine Volume 45.4 2025: Page 26
