January 26, 2024 Brian Lebel's Old West Auction
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 1/26/2024
Martin notes: "This exquisite hitched horsehair bridle was handcrafted by a Native American from the Swinomish tribe while imprisoned at the Washington State Penitentiary in Walla Walla. Both the multi-colored diamond cluster motifs on the double round side cheek straps, and the spiral patterned poll straps and reins are elegantly crafted with accents of orange dyed horsehair. The engraved German silver overlaid bit with heart motif was made in the prison metal workshop in Walla Walla. It is exceedingly rare to find a provenance as detailed as the one that accompanies this stunning piece."
Pictured: "Horsehair Bridles / A Unique American Folk Art: Volume 3 of Bridles of the Americas" by Ned and Jody Martin, page 119
Includes a new copy of the book
Item Dimensions: 5 - 1/4" x 6" x 37".
