An exquisite piece of Native American artistry is making waves in the collector's market. The sterling silver and turquoise concha belt, crafted by the late Diné (Navajo) artist Kirk Smith, is a stunning example of traditional craftsmanship. The belt features a large, heavily stamped repoussé buckle, eleven similarly-worked oval conchas, and butterfly spacers, each set with central turquoise stones. The conchas are backed with leather and attached to a brown leather strap, showcasing Smith's meticulous attention to detail.
The belt, stamped with the artist's initials 'KS' on the verso, measures 46 inches in length, with the buckle spanning 3 by 3 1/2 inches and the conchas varying in size. Weighing in at 743.2 grams gross, this piece is a significant addition to any collection of Native American art. The belt is in overall good condition, with light tarnishing and scratches consistent with its age and use. The turquoise stones exhibit minor abrasions and surface fractures, while the leather shows light wear and faint marks.
Prospective buyers are advised to conduct their own inspection or request a condition report, as the absence of such a report does not guarantee the item is free from defects. Moran's catalogue typically includes condition reports, which can be made available upon request. Buyers are responsible for verifying the true nature and condition of the lot prior to bidding, as failure to do so may waive the right to complain about the item's condition post-purchase.