Western Style Silver Tone Belt Buckle With Hand Painted Horse Scrimshaw Centerpiece Appraisal

Western-Style Silver Tone Belt Buckle with Hand-Painted Horse Scrimshaw Centerpiece

This is a vintage-style western belt buckle featuring a scalloped, rectangular shape with ornate relief detailing. The buckle appears to be constructed from a silver-toned metal, possibly sterling silver or a high-quality silver plate over base metal, exhibiting a naturally aged patina and light surface tarnishing that highlights the recessed decorative elements. The central focus is an oval-shaped medallion depicting a realistic profil of a horse's head wearing a bridle. The horse is executed in soft tones of tan, white, and brown, likely painted on a ceramic or synthetic resin base to mimic the appearance of scrimshaw or fine porcelain. The oval center is framed by a beaded or 'bale' border, which is further flanked by scrolling acanthus leaves and small floral rosettes at the corners. The outer edge of the buckle features a distinct beaded trim, typical of mid-to-late 20th-century Western boutique craftsmanship. Condition appears good overall, with minor abrasions consistent with use and age. The level of detail in the horse's mane and the depth of the floral engraving suggest a high level of craftsmanship, characteristic of makers like Montana Silversmiths or similar artisanal western wear brands from the 1970s or 1980s.