Native American, possibly Kickapoo (Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas), ca. second half of the 19th century CE. A hide-covered wooden saddle, used for horseback riding, with its distinctive near-symmetrical form that indicates it was made for a man, as women used saddles with the cantle shorter than the pommel. This would have rested atop a saddle blanket made of leather, cotton, or wool and adorned with beads, feathers, and quills. The stirrups and leather girth (cinch strap) would be set in the space between the wooden sides of the saddle. Size: 19.75" W x 12.15" H (50.2 cm x 30.9 cm)

See a very similar example at the University of Texas San Antonio Institute of Texan Cultures (2016.4.12).

Provenance: private Glorieta, New Mexico, USA collection

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#150868

The hide surface has a rich patina with wear commensurate with age including some staining, deposits, and small tears/losses, notably around the base of one end. However, it is overall in nice condition and the stitching method used is very well preserved and clearly visible. The wood underneath is lightly weathered but intact.