If you search for "Elizabeth Leekya Vacit" you will find numerous jewelry pieces attributed (mostly) to her husband, Frank, but in later years, she also received credit for their inlaid bolos and brooches. She was the eldest daughter of Leekya Deyuse, and I believe there were a total of four siblings. Sarah Leekya was the youngest daughter.

Frank and Elizabeth inlaying jewelry(BING)

It was through Sarah that Dave and I met Elizabeth and two daughters on an early trip (late 1990's) to Zuni. We fell in love with Sarah. She was shy and quiet but very approachable and we met her when she was working at Pueblo Trading Post. We made a point of seeing her each time we visited and one day she asked if we wanted to visit her home (Leekya's old house) and meet her sister. I believe Sarah, Elizabeth and at least one of the daughters lived there at the time. Of course, we were thrilled at the invitation. Elizabeth presented us with a variety of her beaded figures. (I think we bought the "Zuni Man" and "Lady" from her first. But, as you will see, we acquired rabbits, Mr. and Mrs. Santa and some Christmas ornaments. They will all be online soon.) The making of these figures is an art. The beads are strung on a single thread from start to finish. And, I believe the pattern is in the head and memory of the artist. Some artists continue the tradition today.

Frank and Elizabeth at work making jewelry(BING)

Though Elizabeth was a jeweler in her younger years, she would have been in her sixties when we met and she was then known for her beautiful beaded figures. We bought as many as we could over the years and they have been part of our seasonal decorations since then. They would have all been made in the late 1990's.) I only parted with a few in the beginning when we knew she was still creating them. Elizabeth passed away on January 2, 2005 at the age of 85.

Elizabeth, in later years beading the figures
she become known for. (BING)

No.: 244013 | Available

Price: 165. Pair

Zuni Artist: Elizabeth Leekya Vacit (1919 - 2005)

Item: Beaded Rabbits

Material: Seed Beads

Dimensions: 3" Tall

Signed: No

Shipping costs: depends on your location

Plus state sales tax to Texas residents!

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