The Art of the Western Saddle: A Celebration of Style & Embellishment

Winner of the American Horse Publication's Best Equine Book Award of the Year (2004) Finalist for the 2005 Ben Franklin AwardSpanning time and technique, THE ART OF THE WESTERN SADDLE is a celebration and visual feast of the graceful artistry of the western saddler and his craft. Filled with detailed photographs and illustrations, this book celebrates the saddle as a decorative hallmark of subtle beauty while fulfilling the utility of its principal purpose. The ability for early man to domesticate and ride the horse created the rapid advancement of man's capability to travel and explore. The saddle-the epitome of form following function-evolved to meet the utilitarian needs of the rider and his tasks, be they work or pleasure. Illustrated with historic and contemporary examples of saddle style and decoration, THE ART OF THE WESTERN SADDLE highlights the work of makers such as Visalia Stock Saddle Company, Meana, Miles City Saddlery, Porter, Hamley, Edward H. Bohlin, McCabes, and Keyston Bros., along with contemporary makers such as Chas Weldon, Dale Harwood, Chuck Stormes, Don Butler, Chuck Treon, Jeremiah Watt, and many others. Many saddles of the stars are featured from the golden age of the Hollywood Western; these include outfits belonging to the Lone Ranger, Roy Rogers, Gene Autry, Barbara Stanwyck, Ken Maynard, and Buck Jones. THE ART OF THE WESTERN SADDLE also provides a look at the many exquisite and unpublished examples of the finest in silver and gold overlay and filigree saddle silver created by the West's preeminent metalsmiths. Featuring 300 photographs, this volume is an absolute must for all equestrians, as well as for collectors and admirers of this unique and totally American craft.

Author: Bill Reynolds
Publisher: Lyons Press
Published: 01/01/2005
Pages: 172
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 4.60lbs
Size: 14.34h x 11.28w x 0.86d
ISBN: 9781592280346


Award: Benjamin Franklin Award - Finalist

About the Author
Bill Reynolds is the associate publisher of Cowboys & Indians magazine. He wrote The Cowboy Hat Book and coauthored The Faraway Horses and Believe: A Horseman's Journey with Wyoming horseman Buck Brannaman.


This title is only available via back order