Thanks Zia! That was an enjoyable video. I’m pretty much in Aaron’s camp preferring matching conchos, but this belt is very well done and in good taste. The quality is obvious. Not surprising that it’s long gone.
That makes sense. And you may have also partially pinpointed why I’m not in the market for one for myself. I actually prefer the variety of conchos. If I were to ever buy one, it would severely limit my purchasing of other items, and I like having things that look different. But that’s why there’s a market for all kinds of Native American jewelry out there - we all have different tastes and I really was posting it because I actually love it.
I was in the process of listing my home for sale when someone else swooped in.
Every. Single. Aspect. of it is perfect… It’s even on it’s original leather…
Indeed!
More perfection, from the undoubted master. The buckle, conchos, and spacers would be equally as impressive if placed in a big pile, but on that leather?!
For educational purposes can you share Don’s asking price? I have a number in mind and am curious to know if it’s about right.
Hey @chicfarmer, Don was asking $9,500 and told me he’d take $8,500. Given the provenance, attribution, and collection it came from, it sounded fair/current market to me. When I inquired about it, I honestly thought he would be around 10k. What number did you have in mind?
I’d like to add that this (or a similar example) would also be a candidate for the “What’s Your Grail Piece” thread for me, right alongside a fine, early, open center concho belt.
Believe it or not $9.5K was exactly the number I came up with. I was certain it would be a touch under $10, because that’s a threshold for early necklaces that only maybe Atsidi Sani would cross and/or something with exceptional provenance.*
Thanks for the intel. Totally agree that his offer was fair and current market.
Hear you about missing out! Just means another amazing piece awaits you.
*CONTEMPORARY CAVEAT: However, if McKee Platero made a squash necklace I’m sure it would sail above 10k.
Every so often I’ll come across a contemporary piece that makes me smile. This buckle is certainly an example that did the trick. The details and cleanliness are indicative of Ric’s work, I think it’s simply beautiful.
Ric Charlie, Navajo, 2" x 3", 54.5 grams, fits an 1 1/2" belt
Gahh, I love Ric Charlie’s work and have followed him for a really long time. Missed out on his earlier multi-gemstone inlay pieces. Thanks for posting!