Vintage Tooled Leather Longhorn Steer Belt Buckle

This rectangular belt buckle is constructed from thick, vegetable-tanned leather, featuring a hand-tooled Western design. The central motif depicts a detailed Longhorn steer head in high relief, situated against a scenic desert backdrop that includes a Saguaro cactus, a split-rail fence, and distant mountains under a sky with soaring birds. The artwork utilizes a two-tone color palette, with a light tan or camel leather base contrasted by a dark chocolate brown dyed background to enhance the three-dimensional effect. The perimeter of the buckle is finished with a decorative whip-stitch or lacing technique using a thick, natural-colored leather lace, which adds structural integrity and a rustic aesthetic. Measuring approximately 3.5 by 2 inches, the piece exhibits moderate wear consistent with its vintage age, likely dating from the mid-20th century (1960s-1970s). The leather shows a natural aged patina and minor surface softening on the edges. There are no visible maker's marks on the front, suggesting a piece of folk art or a custom craft shop production. The craftsmanship is high, with deep, clean tooling levels and precise lacing transitions, indicating a skilled leatherworker.