Cool signed vintage sterling Bolo tie from the thrift store

[Snowjonson]

Today I finally got something decent from the jewelry case at a thrift store! It is a vintage Sterling silver Bolo tie by artist John Larson. Bought it for $20. They stock the shelves for 2 hours before they open so gotta et there early to get the good stuff!

 

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[BagLady]

That really is a nice silver. Don't know what's up with the gold colored lil dude being held by the Kachina. Quality turquoise.I think you did well for $20. There is usually a story behind each Kachina.

 

[Snowjonson]

That really is a nice silver. Don't know what's up with the gold colored lil dude being held by the Kachina. Quality turquoise.I think you did well for $20. There is usually a story behind each Kachina.

Thanks! Yeah it seems like a quality piece. I looked up Kachina and it says they are Hopi figures, so does that make this Hopi? Or Hopi style?

I believe the gold colored guy is a rendition of a Belliken figure and maybe put the cowboy hat on for some southwestern flair? Not sure but I found a bolo by the same maker on eBay and they mentioned Belliken in the title, then googled it and it's similar


And some info from Wikipedia:

"To buy a Billiken was said to give the purchaser luck, but to have one given would be better luck.[3] The image was copyrighted and a trademark was put on the name. After a few years of popularity, like other fad toys, the Billiken faded into obscurity. "

 

[GibH]

Old Pawn Indian Jewelry, We offer a large selection of Old Pawn and Estate Indian Jewelry. Old Indian Jewelry by Zuni Navajo and Hopi Artists. Old Pawn Bolo Tie, Bola Tie.

at the bottom of the page. The little guy is butt ugly, but the rest of it is beautiful.

 

[JimDon]

Jackpot! That has got to be worth two bills or more

 

[captain flintlock]

That's a really cool piece! Well done for $20.

 

[tamrock]

I like everything about this item.

 

[BagLady]

I lived in Alb. N. Mexico for 4 years way back when...I think it's Zuni.

 

[Snowjonson]

Jackpot! That has got to be worth two bills or more

I listed it on eBay for $449.00 or best offer and sold it for $375 today! Not too shabby.

 

[GibH]

Congrats on the score!

 

[JimDon]

I listed it on eBay for $449.00 or best offer and sold it for $375 today! Not too shabby.

I'm not surprised. congratulations!