June 24, 2023 Brian Lebel's Santa Fe Old West Events Auction
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/24/2023
Multiple Gold horse heads over engraved sterling silver on leather done in California style floral tooling, this is an ornate show piece with 20" tapaderos, deep jeweler cut engraving, a gold standing horse on the horn cap and a pair of matching sterling and gold horse head covered stirrups. A equally showy matching breast collar is included. Set with an early type hand engraved seat plate "Made by Keyston Bros. / San Francisco". The rear cantle plate is crudely engraved "JOS. SCLAFANI". An exceptional example of the workmanship of the noted California maker. This saddle has a 14 - 1/2" seat, and silver cantle binding. Includes a copy of a photo of Joe Sclafani, the original owner riding the saddle in the Macy's parade.
Started in 1868 the Keyston Bros. were makers of fine whips and lashes but in 1906 they moved into the saddle making business and bought out the J.C Johnson Co., Saddlery. Then in 1912 they purchased the famous Main & Winchester & Stone Saddlery then F. S. Johnson Co., Saddlery and in 1914 they purchased Harpham & Jensen Leather and Shoe Findings Company. They acquired W. Davis & Sons in 1925 and became the largest manufacturer of saddles & harness on the West Coast.
This is not a standard shippable item. Please contact Morphy Auctions for shipping options.