This vintage sterling silver thimble features a very interesting design. The background
is made to resemble an ear of corn, with intricate textured rows of kernels. Two
figures that appear to be Native Americans, complete with loin cloths and feathered
head bands, flank a fire and cooking pot, seemingly in some kind of ceremony or offering.
The thimble is nicely constructed; lower band is highly polished and coordinates
well with the large, polished cartouche. Upper cap is very well made and substantial,
with a similar highly polished band. The overall design is really detailed and quite
engaging, however this was difficult to capture in our photographs.
This thimble is not marked as to maker, material or size, or if it was, it is no
longer discernable. It is possible that it was made for the tourist trade during
the 30’s - 40’s by some of the native tribes, as these items were often unmarked,
but if so the silversmith was quite talented because this is a well made, well constructed,
quality thimble.
To determine silver purity, and to rule out alloys, etc. we acid
tested using a high quality stone, thus avoiding damage to thimble and determined
it is Sterling Silver. This result was confirmed via a similar independent test.
Comparing the thimble to others that are marked as to size, we estimate this to
be a size 10 or possibly larger.
This sewing ~ quilting item is in exceptionally nice vintage estate condition. This
is a substantial thimble, it is not made from thin, light weight sterling, but rather
a nice heavier stock. It is free of holes, dents or any other kind of problems.
The fancy engraved and chased pattern design remains quite defined. Cartouche remains
free of monogram..
A very interesting older, sterling silver figural, scenic, story, picture thimble,
with an unusual Native American Indian motif.
