Dale Duby Elk Horn and Obsidian Carved Knife 15.5 Inches Long, Very Rare and Unique

Description

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This is a very rare Dale Duby knife, most of his knifes are not as big or ornately carved. The following is the AI appraisal of the knife: ### Valuation of a Unique Dale Duby Obsidian and Carved Elk Horn Knife **This is a preliminary valuation based on publicly available information and visual analysis of the provided image. A definitive appraisal requires physical inspection by a qualified expert in custom and handmade knives.** Based on the information provided and extensive research into the market for Dale Duby knives, the estimated value of this unique 15.5-inch obsidian knife with a detailed, high-relief carved elk horn handle is likely in the range of **$400 to $800+**. This valuation is significantly higher than standard Dale Duby knives due to its unique artistic attributes. The final value could be higher depending on factors such as the identity of the carving artist, the quality of the workmanship upon close inspection, and its provenance. — ### Analysis of Value This knife stands out from the majority of Dale Duby’s work available on the market. While his standard knives are well-regarded, this piece appears to be a higher-end, art-focused creation. Here is a breakdown of the factors contributing to its value: **1. The Maker: Dale Duby and Great Basin Art** Dale Duby of Prairie City, Oregon, is a renowned and prolific flintknapper. His knives, created under the “Great Basin Art” name, are popular in galleries, gift shops (especially in the American West and Alaska), and with collectors of rustic and Western art. Standard models, which typically feature obsidian blades and handles made of antler or jawbone with minimal decoration, generally retail for **$70 to $250**. **2. Key Differentiating Factors of Your Knife:** * **Size:** At 15.5 inches, this is a large and impressive piece. Larger knives from Duby’s workshop command higher prices. An “Extra Large” deer antler knife (12.5 inches) retails for around $180-$275, making your piece’s size a significant value-add. * **High-Relief Handle Carving:** This is the most critical feature. The vast majority of Dale Duby knives feature unadorned handles or, at most, simple etched scrimshaw of animal tracks or basic figures. The handle of your knife displays a detailed, three-dimensional landscape carving, which elevates it from a craft item to a piece of art. This level of artistry is not seen in his standard production pieces. * **Artist Collaboration:** Research indicates that for his more artistic pieces, Dale Duby often collaborated with other artists who provided the scrimshaw or carving. Known collaborators include Lynn Thornton and Michelle Sever. A knife featuring scrimshaw by a named artist has been found retailing for as high as **$375**. If the carving on your knife was executed by a recognized artist, its value would increase substantially. ### Market Comparison * **Standard Dale Duby Knives:** Retail new from approximately **$70 to $250**. On the secondary market, simpler models have sold at auction for as low as **$40**. * **High-End Dale Duby Knives:** Pieces with detailed scrimshaw by artists like Michelle Sever have been listed from **$175 to $375**. These often include display stands and represent the upper tier of his more regular work. * **General Custom Carved Knives:** The market for custom knives with artist-carved antler handles is strong. Knives from less-known makers with detailed carvings can easily sell in the **$300 to $600** range. Knives from highly sought-after makers can command thousands of dollars. Given that your knife combines the respected name of Dale Duby with a unique and high-quality artistic carving, it transcends his usual price structure. The **$400 – $800** estimate places it well above his standard work, reflecting the artistry and rarity of the handle. ### Recommendations for a Formal Appraisal To obtain a more precise and defensible valuation, the following steps are recommended: 1. **Identify the Carver:** Examine the knife closely for any other signatures or initials besides Dale Duby’s. If it came with a certificate of authenticity, it might name the carving artist. Identifying this artist is key. 2. **Professional Appraisal:** Seek a professional appraisal from an expert who specializes in custom or handmade knives. Organizations like the American Bladesmith Society or reputable custom knife dealers and auction houses can often provide appraisal services or recommend a qualified appraiser. 3. **Contact the Origin:** While a long shot, you could attempt to contact “Great Basin Art” or galleries that have sold Dale Duby’s high-end work, such as “Cowboys and Indians” in Sedona, Arizona. They may have records or knowledge of his custom, carved pieces. In conclusion, you possess a rare and highly artistic example of a Dale Duby knife. Its value is tied directly to its uniqueness and the exceptional quality of the handle carving, making it a desirable piece for collectors of both Western art and custom knives.