Bolo, Inlay, Comanche, Mixed Stones With Unique Sterling Bezel, Ralph Quam Hallmark, Vintage, Museum Quality, 3266

UNBELIEVABLE QUALITY, UNRIVALED CRAFTSMANSHIP

Behold this breathtaking bolo, a rare and gorgeous piece boasting a large Comanche chief depiction of museum-quality inlay by revered artisan Ralph Quam (circa 1973-1983). The face and channel inlay work on this bolo are great examples of Ralph Quam's careful work with dimensionality and complex choice of gorgeous stones and shells, but the surprisingly unique and magnificent element is the silver work for both the slide and the handmade tips. The Chief's Head is surrounded by carefully handmade silver feather stamp work that is carefully detailed and spectacular. He used the same stamp that he used on the outer area of the feathers on the hand made tips. “The work is just phenomenal, his top quality, best work; it's exceptionally elaborate and spectacular, with fabulous detailing. The turquoise is all a rich light blue-green color, very clean of matrix. The beautiful natural stones and shells include yellow lip shell, red abalone, penn shell, reflective mother of pearl shell and jet. Of course, all the stones were hand cut and buffed and shaped for this piece. This is a completely breathtaking piece of work in every respect.

Ralph Quam (1914-deceased; Zuni). Mosaic inlay; incised faces; Comanche figural heads. Ralph Quam shared some marks with his wife Fannie Quam.

Marks: R. Q (etched); R. QUAM; R & F; R & F QUAM

• artist: Raymond "Ralph" Quam (1938-1971)
  
• affiliation: Zuni
• hallmarks: R. QUAM (on applied plate)
• materials: sterling silver, yellow lip shell, red abalone, penn shell, reflective mother of pearl shell, jet, leather cord
• measurements: shield: 2 3/8" x 2 3/4", length: 44 1/2", tips: 1 7/8"
• tension clamp marked: BENNET PAT PEND
• nice vintage condition
• stones are secure in their settings
• one hairline crack - does not affect wearability
• abrasions and surface wear commensurate with age
• silver has a nice patina 
• light wear from use
• style: JN3266