Shadow Box Display Case containing 'The Hopi Eagle Knife'
Other / Wall-mounted Display Framing · Late 20th Century Southwestern Decorative Arts (c. 1980s-1990s) · The plate identifies the knife designer as Ben Nighthorse (Ben Nighthorse Campbell). The frame manufacturer is unidentified.
Type
Other / Wall-mounted Display Framing
Style Period
Late 20th Century Southwestern Decorative Arts (c. 1980s-1990s)
Material
Wooden frame (solid oak or ash), glass glazing, paperboard backing, brass identification plate, and internal mounting hardware. The knife consists of stainless steel, resin/composite, and decorative stone inlay.
Age Estimate
Circa 1985-1995.
Dimensions
Height: 18-20 inches, Width: 8-10 inches, Depth: 2-3 inches. This is a standard size for vertical art display cases.
Origin
USA; likely produced as a limited edition commemorative set for Franklin Mint or a similar collectibles firm.
Designer/Maker
The plate identifies the knife designer as Ben Nighthorse (Ben Nighthorse Campbell). The frame manufacturer is unidentified.
Value Estimate
$75.00 - $150.00 (Auction value). The value is impacted by the condition of the stained backing board.
Description
A vertical wooden shadow box featuring a commemorative 'Hopi Eagle Knife'. The frame utilizes a dual-tone aesthetics with a dark textured outer rim and a turquoise inner lip that references Southwestern motifs. The knife inside serves as the focal point, featuring a sculpted bald eagle head pommel and a turquoise inlay on the grip.
Key Features
Turquoise inner frame accent; brass nameplate; sculpted eagle pommel; vertical orientation designed specifically for dagger display.
Color & Finish
Dark espresso/black dyed wood stain with a visible grain, accented by a narrow inner border painted in light turquoise blue. The backing is a neutral tan/buff matte paper.
Construction Method
Commercial shadow box construction with mitered corners and a recessed depth to accommodate 3D objects. The frame is likely factory-produced while the mounting of the knife is a custom assembly.
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Standard mitered frame joints. The craftsmanship of the display is functional/retail grade, whereas the knife itself exhibits detailed artisan styling.
Wood Grain & Species
Shows open-grain texture consistent with Oak or Ash, finished with a dark pigment to emphasize the grain ridges.
Surface Treatment
Matte to semi-gloss dark stain on the frame; the inner turquoise fillet has a flat opaque paint finish.
Upholstery Details
None; features a tan paperboard or foam-core mounting board instead of fabric lining.
Hardware & Fittings
Includes a small brass identification plaque at the base, an internal mounting bracket for the handle, and likely a sawtooth or D-ring hanger on the reverse.
Origin & Provenance
USA; likely produced as a limited edition commemorative set for Franklin Mint or a similar collectibles firm.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. The frame shows minor dust and wear. Noteworthy staining (likely water or oil spots) is visible on the inner tan backing board near the knife point and handle.
Interesting Facts
Ben Nighthorse Campbell, the designer of the knife, was a U.S. Senator and a renowned Native American jewelry designer and athlete who competed in the 1964 Olympics.
Cultural Significance
Represents the popularization of Southwestern and 'Native-inspired' collectibles in the American market during the late 20th century.
Similar Pieces
Often confused with authentic Hopi tribal artifacts; this is a decorative commemorative piece rather than a functional tool or ancient relic.
Care & Maintenance
Dust frame with a soft cloth; clean glass with ammonia-free glass cleaner. To address backing stains, the case would need to be opened and the backing board replaced.
Value Estimate
$75.00 - $150.00 (Auction value). The value is impacted by the condition of the stained backing board.
Sustainability Notes
A vintage item that encourages reuse and preservation of existing materials. Longevity depends on maintaining a dry environment to prevent further damage to paper components.