Zuni Coral Cross Pendant

Wilbur Iule is son of Horace Iule and Lupe Iule; brother of Cecilia Iule, Robert Iule, Barney Iule, Phillip Iule, and Ruby Lupe Leekity. Is wife is Marilyn Iule. Wilbur learn jewelery making from his parents Horace and Lupe. He has been actively making jewelry since the 1980s and is noted for cast work, nuggets, buckles and crosses.

The late Horace Iule (1901-1978) was well known for his crosses. Horace worked with his wife Lupe Iule, who was from San Felipe Pueblo. They were married in 1933, and had six children. Horace was taught blacksmithing at the Phoenix Indian School and silversmithing by his father. He later became a teacher of silversmithing at the Zuni Day School. In 1928, Horace created the knifewing figure in silver jewelry and he was perhaps the first master Zuni artisan. He has been described as versatile and skilled� and a master of many elements of construction techniques, including casting and wrought-works and lapidary. According to the Extension Service in 1932 "Horace is considered to be the best jewelry maker of his tribe and won first prize on a collection at the recent Inter-Tribal Ceremonial and Fair at Gallup NM."

Reference: American Indian Jewelry II: A-L 1800 Artist Biographies by Gregory and Angie Schaaf.