Lot 209: Signed Navarro Carved Bone Rabbit Fringe Brooch
Description
A charming piece of studio art jewelry, this brooch pairs a hand-carved bone (or bone-style resin) rabbit figure — its fur, eye, and haunch lines incised by hand — with a hammered, sunburst-engraved brass oval backplate and a cascade of ten-plus beaded fringe strands below. The dangles mix carved wood, bone, and brass beads in warm earth tones, including a ribbed cone-shaped bead and a tiny carved spike, giving the whole piece the layered, tactile look associated with the tribal- and nature-inspired studio jewelry movement that flourished among American artisan jewelers in the 1980s and '90s. It's signed "Navarro" in script on the pin back, and the visible rivets holding the figure and bead strands to the plate confirm hand assembly rather than mass production. The rabbit itself is a favorite motif in folk and totemic jewelry, often read as a symbol of quickness, luck, or fertility across many traditions — a nice hook for collectors drawn to figural or animal-themed pins. The combination of substantial size, movement (the fringe sways with wear), and a legible artist signature makes this a standout for collectors of signed costume and studio jewelry.
Condition Report:
Good vintage condition, wear commensurate with age. The brass backplate shows an attractive aged patina with darker toning in the engraved recesses, consistent with age and desired by most collectors of this style. The carved rabbit figure shows no visible chips or losses. All beaded fringe strands appear complete and securely attached, with no obvious breaks or missing beads. The pin closure functions and the "Navarro" signature is clear and legible. As with most riveted assemblage jewelry, please check individual strands for secure attachment before wear.
Keywords:
Navarro jewelry, signed brooch, carved bone rabbit, studio jewelry, assemblage brooch, beaded fringe pin, tribal style jewelry, artisan brooch, figural animal pin, brass sunburst brooch, vintage costume jewelry, rabbit jewelry, 1980s studio jewelry, signed designer pin
Dimensions: H: 1", W: 2.25", L: 4"