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This beautiful sterling silver concho belt was crafted by Frank Patania Sr. (1889-1964). This lovely belt shows the European influence of his designs with precise stamp work seen on the center rope. A beautiful patina graces the entire belt. His work is admired and collected worldwide.
The belt measures 42" long, with the buckle measuring 2 1/2" long by 2" wide. The soft black leather can be punched for the perfect fit. Each of the 9 conchos are 2 1/4" long by 1 3/4" wide and have a nice weight, 297 grams. The conchos are in excellent condition. Hallmarked with his encircled FP and the Thunderbird Shop mark, with sterling.
Frank Patania Sr.'s was born in Messina, Italy in 1899, he followed the European tradition of apprenticeship in jewelry making. He was introduced to the work of the Native Americans in the 1920’s. He soon opened his first business called the Thunderbird Shop, located in Santa Fe, NM near the famous downtown plaza in 1927. Moving to Tucson for a second location in 1937, he ran both shops for the remainder of his life. Frank taught and employed Native American artist at both locations. Better known artists, such as Julian Lovato of the Santo Domingo pueblo in New Mexico, Joe Quintana and Arthur and Andy Rivera, along with many others.
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