Frog Trade Silver, Inspired Pewter Pendant
A little history, a little symbolism; and one undeniably adorable frog butt.
Our Frog Pendant belongs to the same historically inspired collection as our Turtle, drawing from the tradition of small metal ornaments associated with the trade and exchange between Europeans and Indigenous peoples in North America.
Silver ornaments, often referred to today as trade silver; included brooches, earrings, crosses, animal forms, and other decorative pieces. Over time, these objects moved beyond simple articles of exchange as Native communities incorporated silver ornaments into their own styles of personal adornment and cultural traditions.
Animal forms were particularly meaningful, although their significance varied greatly among individual Nations and communities. The frog appears in the stories and artistic traditions of a number of Indigenous cultures, especially in regions where frogs are an important part of the natural environment. Rather than having one universal Native meaning, its significance belongs to the specific traditions in which it appears.
Beyond any one culture, there is something wonderfully symbolic about the frog itself. A frog begins life in water before undergoing an extraordinary transformation that allows it to move between water and land. That natural life cycle has made the frog an enduring symbol of transformation, adaptability, renewal, and change.
Our little frog captures all of that with considerably more personality.
Unlike a flat medallion, this piece is fully dimensional. From its raised head and outstretched webbed feet to the wonderfully sculpted backside that has made more than a few people smile at our show tables, the frog is meant to be enjoyed from every angle.
Hand cast in lead-free pewter and individually hand finished in our shop, the Frog Pendant measures approximately 1-1/2" x 1-1/8" and comes on an 18" stainless steel chain.
A small piece connected to a much larger history and a cheerful reminder that transformation sometimes requires taking a leap.
