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Sterling Wells Fargo Coach by H. Roysher 1950s

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:1,000.00 USD Estimated At:3,000.00 - 5,000.00 USD
Sterling Wells Fargo Coach by H. Roysher 1950s
Featured in this lot is a rare Wells Fargo Express Coach made of sterling and set on a piece of prasiolite (green quartz) done by Hudson Roysher in the 1950s. Roysher, a silversmith who was primarily self-taught, started honing his craft as a teenager and won first place in the yearly Cleveland Art Museum exhibition in 1934 at the age of 23. While Roysher's ecclesiastical works were commissioned by numerous Southern California churches from the 1950s through the 1970s. His contemporary and architecturally sophisticated secular works were sold at Gump's, the renowned San Francisco luxury retailer, in the 1940s. He oversaw the metals program at California State University, Los Angeles, for many years before taking over as the department's chairman of art in 1971. As a result of his teaching, writings, and workshops, he had an impact on several generations of silversmiths.
Additionally, The Huntington's Virginia Steele Scott Galleries of American Art have featured his artwork. In 1993, Roysher passed away. In the 1950s, Roysher worked in the Fred Prosser Oakland Jewelry Store as a silversmith and made this gorgeous piece. After the piece was completed, it sat in the front window of the Oakland, California store until it was purchased in 1959. The piece is constructed of solid sterling and set on a piece of prasiolite, also known as green quartz. The Wells Fargo express coach shows great attention to detail and reads, "U.S. Mail Wells Fargo Express / Wells Fargo" on both sides of the coach in yellow coloring. There is one man holding the reins to the four horses, while the other is standing up, holding his shotgun. The attention to detail in the coach, men and horses is amazing. The green quartz shows colors of black, grey, white and many shades of green and features three polished sides and felt on the bottom to prevent scratching. Overall, the piece shows good condition with little to no wear and no signs of obvious damage is present. The sterling shows some light patina in some areas. The piece measures 9 7/8" L x 3 13/16" W x 4 7/8" H and weighs 6 pounds and 2 ounces.*