This self-taught Chickasaw sculptor's work is exhibited in collections throughout the United States including The Philbrook Museum, The Five Civilized Tribes Museum, The Oklahoma Governor's Gallery, Trail of Tears, and the Chickasaw Nation Museum.

Prior to her death in 1994, his widow had all molds brought to her hospital room and destroyed while she watched insuring there would be no more made.   All of his major works were limited to an edition of twenty but his widow's action meant that some editions were never filled.  These are rare artworks indeed!

The many honors bestowed on Clayburn  include Master Artist of the Five Civilized Tribes, Honored One at the Red Earth Festival and  induction into the Chickasaw National Hall of Fame in 1989.

We have receieved many request for value estimates on Clayburn's sculptures. Unfortunately, placing a value on Clayburn Straughn sculptures is very difficult. He died in 1985 and his wife died in 1994. I was present and a witness that all of the molds of his work were actually destroyed. Even though each bronze was limited to an edition of 20, only two or three of each were cast at a time so most never had the full edition cast. With some of his later sculptures, only just a few exist at all. Because of this, his sculptures are extremely rare.

We recommend contacting a reputable appraiser to get their opinion as to the value of any sculpture you are planning on buying or would like to sell.

In the final analysis, it really depends on how much each individual thinks the sculptures are worth. Personally, I think they are priceless!

For a more complete bio of Clayburn Straughn visit: http://www.chickasaw.net/hof/inductees/clayburn-straughn.htm