Bidspirit auction | Vintage Cast Brass Native American

Vintage Cast Brass Native American Chief Design Belt Buckle Dated 1949 - This antique cast metal belt buckle, likely brass based on the golden-toned base metal visible through surface wear, features a high-relief Western and Native American central motif. The centerpiece depicts an Indigenous chief in a full feathered war bonnet, accented with traces of red and white paint. The background is composed of a traditional landscape including several tipis, mountain peaks, and a figure on horseback. Each of the four corners is decorated with a relief design of crossed arrows and peace pipes. The reverse of the buckle is fitted with a standard metal swing loop and hook prong for belt attachment. The back of the buckle features an impressed mark consisting of a graphic bird-in-flight logo positioned above the struck text DES. PAT. NO. 153836. This number corresponds to a design patent granted in 1949. Width: 3 inches Height: 2 inches. This antique item shows significant wear consistent with age and use. There is extensive loss to the original gold-tone finish on the face and reverse, revealing the darker underlying base metal (photo 1, 3). The red and white paint on the headdress is heavily chipped and worn (photo 2). Surface scratches, minor pitting, and oxidation are present throughout the metal, particularly in the recessed areas of the design and on the rear plate (photo 3, 4). The mounting hardware remains intact and functional.