Navajo Antler And Bone Awlknife By Yazzie Appraisal

Navajo Antler and Bone Awl/Knife by Yazzie

This is a small, handcrafted utility tool consisting of a polished bone tip or blade attached to a natural antler handle. The item measures approximately 4–5 inches in length. The upper portion, which serves as the handle, is fashioned from a weathered deer or elk antler tine, showing a natural grayish-brown patina and textured surface characteristic of aged bone or antler. The lower portion features a sharply tapered, cream-colored bone point, precision-ground to a fine tip. These two components are joined in the middle using a traditional hafting technique, secured with tightly wound sinew or a similar natural fiber wrapping that has a yellowish-tan color. A white 'Certificate of Authenticity' tag is attached to the top via a cord, clearly bearing the name 'Yazzie,' a common surname among Navajo (Diné) artisans. Based on the materials and construction, this piece represents 20th to 21st-century Native American craftsmanship. The condition appears stable with intentional rustic weathering on the handle; the bone tip is clean with no visible chips, and the sinew wrapping remains taut, indicating good preservation. This type of object is often created both as a functional tool for leatherwork or as a ceremonial/ornamental art piece.