29 Oct Things We Love: Things We Love
Al’s Crosses Cowboy Boots by Tres Outlaws
Wearable art takes on new meaning in this remarkable pair of men’s handcrafted cowboy boots. Al’s Crosses were inspired by the masterful silver work of the late, great Alan Somers, an Arizona artist known for his one-of-a-kind pieces. The hand-engraved, inlaid sterling silver crosses were commissioned by Tres Outlaws owner Scott Wayne Emmerich whose design was crafted out of black kangaroo leather with red insets that beautifully frame the silverwork. There are 16 crosses distributed around the front, side and back of each boot, all of which were sewn in place using a titanium needle. Rather than studs, sterling silver metallic lacing climbs up the vamp and shaft, adding gleam and brilliance. Created with a comfortable 1.5-inch walking heel, these boots top off at 12 inches tall and fit a universal men’s size 11 D-E. These and just one more pair (custom-sized for you) are available now. If you’re not familiar with Tres Outlaws in El Paso, Texas, and Cody, Wyoming, it’s time to get acquainted.
$15,900.00
Leap Miniature Collage by Susan Bell
Collectors love miniatures. These small works demand sharper focus on design and composition. And, of course, we are rewarded when we take the time to focus, by discovering surprises we might miss in a larger work. Part of the mystique behind the unusual collages by Western artist Susan Bell is that her work is composed entirely of beads and buttons that are adhered to the surface with wax, creating brilliant little “objects d’art.” Bell, better known for her portrayals of ranch life, landscapes, and animals in oil, says these treasures have drawn a fresh audience to her work. Leap depicts a fox on the hunt set against the night sky. For such a small work, there are hundreds of tiny beads and buttons that catch the light and bring it to life. Leap is just one in Bell’s lovely collection of works that includes birds, bison, rabbits, horses, and more, as well as fully beaded three-dimensional animal sculptures.
5 x 7 inches
$425
Hawaii Blues Teapot by Peter Durst
Teapots are one of the civilized world’s most treasured utilities. They are useful, enduring, and cherished, especially in some cultures where making tea has reached near-sacred status. Which is also why it’s exciting to see new approaches to this time-honored vessel from the hands of master potter/sculptor/clay artist Peter Durst. Built with the slab method of clay construction, the unique shape, lid, spout, and handle of this delightful sculpture might reference some Japanese predecessor, but the similarities stop there. Outfitted with a palm tree lid handle and a decorative pair of doors, its azure-blue glaze creates a canvas for a South Seas vision of paradise. Durst, also an educator, has maintained a bustling studio in Denver for more than 40 years and always goes beyond the usual. The pot’s surface decoration is a ceramic decal devised from nature photographs, adding a contemporary feel that transports us to paradise. One of several in a unique collection produced in various colors and imagery, the idea of teatime will never be the same.
30 x 27 x 10 inches
$2000
San Miguel Lambswool Duster by Pendleton
This calf-length, open coat, is as flattering as it is elegant. From Pendleton, the venerable American company founded in Oregon more than 150 years ago, theSan Miguel Lambswool Duster in 100 percent lambswool, features the San Miguel pattern from the Pendleton blanket of the same name. Both duster and blanket are characterized by bold crosses and minimalist colors that were inspired by Southwest 19th century Spanish missionaries’ weavings. Pendleton is an American Heritage Brand, which is a designation awarded to manufacturers that have stood the test of time and evolved into bastions of style. A sixth-generation family-owned company, their weaving expertise comes from decades of innovation and dedication. In 1976, the Pendleton Legendary Blanket Collection was created celebrating the symbols and stories of Native American culture. Wool textiles from Pendleton, woven with wool from regional and national sheep farmers, are resilient, naturally sustainable, and biodegradable. Pendleton clothing and blankets typically last for generations and often become collectible.
$299.00
Silver Belt Buckle with Vintage Tin Horse by Nancy Anderson of Sweet Bird Studio
This hand-made silver belt buckle with a vintage tin horse illustration, a shield of Victorian glass, mother-of-pearl cross, black onyx accents, turquoise flowers, and spiny oyster heart exemplifies the many endearing works by artist Nancy Anderson. Finding inspiration in the past, her unique jewelry incorporates vintage advertisements made of metal or glass, imbuing new life into pendants and buckles, cuffs and charms. Pet tags — for bridles, too — are a specialty, featuring messages from the heart that speak volumes. Anderson, who has been in business for more than 30 years, reveres “spiritual hardware and sacred scrap.” Repurposing these lovely objects, she believes, helps save the earth and, in some meaningful way, the wearer. Items in her collection are referred to as “Wearable Shrines of Intention” because each purchase is highly subjective; making a selection is like falling in love. Anderson is always willing to craft heirloom pieces into something new or to recycle worn or broken jewelry, letting the object guide her imagination and her hands. Anderson invites the curious to join her in collecting and collaborating on inspirational jewelry because, she insists, “Now, more than ever, art saves.”
2.75 x 5 inches
$750
Parade Saddle by Tedd Flowers
A shining example from another era, this vintage saddle (1950s-60s) features flashy Monel silver embellishments and is one of Ted Flowers’ dressier saddles known as “Deluxe Models.” Flowers started making ornate bridles and saddles in 1945 and became known for his parade saddles. Like most of his unique saddles, this one is unmarked, however, serving as confirmation of the maker, this saddle sports his tell-tale flower engraving on the horn. The seat measures 15 inches. Accessories include a breast collar, bridle, a 5.25-inch bit, rear hip drop, tapaderos, and a new custom corona pad.
$10,000
Chenille Flannels by Rockmount Ranch Wear
For those cool winter days, grab one of Rockmount’s warm, rugged chenille flannel shirts. Flannel comforts like no other fabric, and it’s a perfect layer under a down vest or jacket. The classic shadow plaid weave is available in a full range of colors, providing attractive choices for men and women. Made by the company that introduced the first snap shirts in America, Rockmount takes great pride in its signature diamond snap and sawtooth pocket design. The handsome shadow plaids are made of heavy, 100% cotton yarn and feature rugged double needling. Made in the USA.
XS to XXL
$150
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