American Indian Art Auction

RG Munn Auctions will present the upcoming American Indian Art Auction on January 20, 2020. Much of Native art was intended to perform a service – to please a deity, soothe an angry god, placate or frighten evil spirits, or to honor the newly born or recently deceased. This art often depicts the lifestyles, cultures, religion, and environment of the various tribes. It includes pottery and ceramics, jewelry, beadwork, basket weaving, and carvings. Highlighted in the auction is a 1970s turquoise necklace with matching earrings from the Navajo artist Don (Juan) Johnson. Signed ‘Don Juan of New Mexico,’ the 18-inch 14 karat gold necklace features a turquoise shell and coral pendant. The dangling earrings are also made of gold and turquoise to match. 

Another notable lot presented in this sale is a 1980s mask from the Northwest coast. This wooden mask is hand-carved and painted with purple and turquoise designs around the mouth, eyes, and forehead. The mask is topped with blonde hair. A selection of Navajo Indian textiles, a pottery dough bowl, several pieces of Wounaan Rain Forest basketry, and an antique photo of an Indian woman holding a small child will also be included. To view all 206 lots and place a bid, visit RG Munn Auctions.