The ring has been through the ringer We were on our way to stay a night in Steamboat Springs, and had major car trouble on the way (that was a crazy scary story in and of itself; we’re blessed we didn’t have a major wreck), and had to be towed into town. We had no car, and ended up staying there 2 nights. I found the ring and fell in love with it, but wasn’t sure I should buy it since we didn’t know how much all of our problems were going to cost. Fortunately we didn’t have to spend as much as we thought … so I bought the ring! And then of course all the other issues I mentioned in the previous post. Poor ring!
These are all wonderful, @Bmpdvm. I’m partial to the Redheaded Woodpecker, because I’m a bird watcher, and I don’t get to see those too often IRL; he is amazing. I also love the first one ( am I correct it’s tufa cast?). I admit that 2 headed thunderbird is giving me the willies a little bit
Yes, the family all do exceptional Tufa cast. They are such a nice family with 2 sons (including Robert) carrying on Daryl Dean and Rebecca’s style. The two headed Thunderbird is different…I’ve seen several of them. I’ll have to look up the significance
Regarding the two headed Thunderbird; it seems the symbol has a long widespread historical past, similar to the whirling log symbol. The two heads were meant as a symbol of the physical and spiritual power back in the Byzantine empire. It was (and may still be) an achievement symbol in Masonic ceremonies. From the little I’ve read, the double headed eagle seems to symbolizes the Representative of God on Earth (transmitting messages received from God in the sky to leaders and people on Earth).
So…that’s all I’ve got. Anyone who knows more please chime in.
transcript for those of you playing along at home on your phone:
You
what is the meaning of the 2 headed thunderbird symbol in Native American culture
Copilot
Explore
In Native American legend, the Thunderbird holds great significance as a symbol of creation and the power behind fearsome storms. Let’s delve into its rich symbolism:
Storms and Natural Phenomena:
The Thunderbird represents the forces of nature, including tornadoes, hurricanes, rain, thunder, lightning, and blizzards. These powerful weather events are associated with the wind, air, and sky.
Different tribes attribute varying meanings to the Thunderbird:
Algonquian People: They believe in a cosmic balance between the Thunderbird (ruler of the upper world) and an underwater panther or great horned snake (ruler of the underworld). The Thunderbird protects humans by hurling lightning bolts at the panther/snake.
Menominee Tribe: They envision thunderbirds residing atop a magical mountain floating near the western sky. Thunderbirds control rainy and cold weather, engage in battles, and display incredible feats of strength.
In essence, the Thunderbird remains a timeless and awe-inspiring symbol, bridging ancient wisdom with the present day.
Learn more
2of4
You
specific reason for thunderbirds with 2 heads was not cited in your wall of text
Copilot
I apologize for the oversight. The two-headed Thunderbird holds a fascinating place in Native American mythology, and its significance is indeed intriguing. Let’s explore the specific reasons behind this unique representation:
Dual Nature and Balance:
The two heads of the Thunderbird symbolize a dual nature or balance. This concept is prevalent in many indigenous cultures.
One head represents the physical world, while the other embodies the spiritual realm or the underworld.
Together, they maintain equilibrium, ensuring harmony between the seen and unseen aspects of existence.
Guardianship and Protection:
The Thunderbird with two heads is often seen as a guardian or protector.
One head gazes toward the earth, watching over the land, animals, and people.
The other head looks upward, safeguarding the celestial and spiritual realms.
This dual vigilance ensures safety and balance for all living beings.
Intermediary Role:
The Thunderbird acts as an intermediary between different worlds.
Its dual heads allow it to communicate with both the earthly and divine realms.
Shamans and spiritual leaders invoke the Thunderbird’s assistance during rituals, seeking guidance and healing.
Transformation and Shapeshifting:
Some legends depict the Thunderbird as a shapeshifter.
The two heads represent its ability to transform between bird and human forms.
In this context, the Thunderbird bridges the gap between mortal and supernatural realms.
Cosmic Forces and Unity:
The dual-headed Thunderbird embodies the cosmic forces that govern existence.
It reminds us of the interconnectedness of all things—earth, sky, and spirit.
By harmonizing these realms, the Thunderbird reinforces unity and balance.
Remember that Native American mythology varies across tribes, and interpretations may differ. However, the two-headed Thunderbird remains a powerful symbol, teaching us about duality, protection, and the delicate dance between worlds.
Thanks Steve; Great summary, hats off to AI! The last sentence pretty much pulls it all together:
“… the two-headed Thunderbird remains a powerful symbol, teaching us about duality, protection, and the delicate dance between worlds”.
Love him! I wouldn’t have guessed that’s Hopi because of what looks like solid black in the overlay; just shows there’s always exceptions to the “rules.”
That may be so. When I have a chance I’ll check my Hopi book, although I bet there are some others on here who know. Is this artist older? I haven’t had a chance to look anything up.
Wallie Sekayumptewa (1917-2003; Hopi). Active 1940s-1960s; 1990s. Overlay; stone sets. An early innovator in overlay technology at the Hopi Silvercraft Cooperative Guild in the late 1940s. Hopi GI Bill class of 1949-1951.
Mark: Crossed arrows (may have Hopi Guild mark)
Yes, the earlier Hopi silver overlay did not commonly have the etching. Here is a link to a page from the Museum of Northern Arizona which shows several examples of early Hopi overlay with a smooth background:
No worries, I don’t mind detours I love all of these. But it does look like your last one has some etching in it? Am I seeing that right? Just widely spaced marks. My pieces vary on how tight the etching is.
Actually I think you’re right; I stand corrected. I’m not at home right now so I found some old photos on my phone. I didn’t remember that it had etching, but looking again closely I think it does.
We were on our way to stay a night in Steamboat Springs, and had major car trouble on the way (that was a crazy scary story in and of itself; we’re blessed we didn’t have a major wreck), and had to be towed into town. We had no car, and ended up staying there 2 nights. I found the ring and fell in love with it, but wasn’t sure I should buy it since we didn’t know how much all of our problems were going to cost. Fortunately we didn’t have to spend as much as we thought … so I bought the ring! And then of course all the other issues I mentioned in the previous post. Poor ring!
