Frank Carrillo Three Panel Mosaic Inlay Belt Buckle [SOLD]

Three sterling silver and multi-stone mosaic inlay panels form this unique belt buckle. Laguna Pueblo silversmith Frank Carrillo skillfully cut turquoise, lapis, and spiny oyster shell, and created the colorful mosaic center on each panel of the three buckle sections. Swirling water designs and geometric patterns, executed in silver overlay style, frame the gemstones on both sides of the mosaic center. The three buckles are on a leather belt which is easily adjustable up to 38 inches. 

Frank Carrillo is a jewelry artist from Laguna Pueblo. He is one of the artists from whom Marvin and Betty Rubin purchased art in the early 1990s. The Rubins traveled extensively around the American Southwest, attending shows, fairs and visiting artists in their homes. They bought pieces based on their appreciation of the creativity and skill of the artists they met. They looked for art that was innovative and enjoyed supporting artists whose work they liked. It is easy to see why the Rubins chose this buckle set. It is colorful, well-crafted and distinctively one-of-a-kind. 

The buckle set is signed on the center panel buckle with F.C. LAGUNA and STERLING. The Rubin’s records indicate it was purchased directly from the artist in 1992.

Condition: The buckle is in excellent condition. The black leather is in good condition, showing wear consistent with use. 

Provenance: this Frank Carrillo Three Panel Mosaic Inlay Belt Buckle is from the estate of Marvin and Betty Rubin of Albuquerque

Recommended Reading: SOUTHWESTERN INDIAN JEWELRY Crafting New Traditions by Dexter Cirillo

Relative Links: Laguna Pueblo, Southwest Indian Jewelry, Frank Carrillo