I am frequently asked the same three questions about this piece: "What does the title mean?", "What's that worn circle in the back pocket of those jeans?", and "Why is he only wearing one spur?".First, "OPRY SEAT" refers to the phrase I've heard describing someone perched on the top rail of a fence to get a good view of the action. It's sometimes spoken in a semi-sarcastic manner when the one on the rail is watching the work in progress instead of doing it. However, this particular gentleman was observed near the chute at a roping, keeping a close eye on the competition.
Second, the circle worn in the back pocket of those jeans is from the ever-present can of smokeless tobacco, usually Skoal or Copenhagen, carried by so many cowboys. Also referred to as "chew", "dip", or "snoose", this type of tobacco is preferred by many over regular cigarettes or chewing tobacco. "Just a pinch 'tween mah cheek 'n gum..." is how Walt Garrison immortalized it on the old television commercial.
In answer to the question about the single spur, this man is a contest calf roper. When he ropes his calf, he dismounts and runs to the calf to flank and tie it. If you tend to run as I do, with your feet pointed somewhat outward (and your heels toward each other), two spurs might become tangled resulting in a none-to-graceful "face plant" in the middle of the arena. Although style points are not a consideration in calf roping, most competitors would rather not get "up close and personal" with what's mixed in with the surface of most arenas.
DANIEL FRANKS
All negatives and plates used in the production process of this print have since been destroyed. There will be no further reproduction of the original drawing.
