Overview
This is an original pencil and graphite artwork framed under glass, depicting an Indigenous figure with stylized facial paint or split-portrait motif flanked by large feathers.
Identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is an original pencil and graphite artwork framed under glass, depicting an Indigenous figure with stylized facial paint or split-portrait motif flanked by large feathers.
Story
Created in 2016 and signed by Justice Blacksun. The artist appears to be a contemporary working artist focusing on Indigenous cultural motifs, though currently lacking a major auction record or established secondary gallery market. Original graphite and charcoal portraits of Indigenous subjects have a steady secondary market, driven largely by decorative appeal and Western art collectors.
Maker / Origin
Unattributed
Condition & Value
The artwork is described as framed under glass, which generally protects the graphite from smudging and environmental degradation. The strong contrast and smooth shading indicate the surface is well-preserved. The primary condition variable will be whether the matting and backing materials are acid-free to prevent future toning.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Original graphite and charcoal portraits of Indigenous subjects have a steady secondary market, driven largely by decorative appeal and Western art collectors. Works by unlisted or contemporary regional artists generally trade in the $150 to $400 range on broad online marketplaces, depending heavily on execution quality, scale, and framing.
▲ Original, hand-drawn graphite medium commands a premium over giclée or lithographic prints
▲ Highly collectible Western/Indigenous subject matter with strong decorative contrast
▲ Clear signature and date (2016) establish authenticity and origin
▲ Ready-to-hang status (framed under glass) adds immediate retail appeal
▼ Lack of established secondary market demand for this specific artist caps the upper value
▼ Unverified dimensions — a very small scale (e. g., under 8x10 inches) would push value toward the lower end of the range
▼ Shipping risks and costs associated with glazed, framed art can compress the net return
Best Venue
List on a broad marketplace like eBay or Etsy, utilizing keywords like 'Original Graphite Native American Portrait' and 'Western Art'. A Buy-It-Now price of $350 with offers accepted down to $250 is a practical approach. Consider offering the piece unframed if the current frame is heavy or generic, as shipping framed glass can deter online buyers.
Upside Potential
If the artist gains notable regional gallery representation or wins contemporary Western art awards, the value of their earlier 2016 works could appreciate into the $500-$800 range.
Also found — market-range context
Surfaced during research but not used to anchor the valuation — wrong form, species, era, or no published price. Shown so the market range around this item is visible.