Rex Schnitger (1977-1947) Spurs

A massive pair of double-mounted Wyoming collector spurs with 1" wide Cheyenne split heelbands, each adorned with three of Schnitger's trademark 8-pointed domed buttons. The 3" spiked shanks with 5 angled inlays each with snowflake engraving supporting a stunning, oversized 34-point iron rowels fronted by an exquisitely engraved silver washer repeating the 8-pointed star theme. The straps are newer lined dove wing style with 3" scalloped conchos. A true show-stopper and probably one the best pair of Rex Schnitger spurs to surface at auction in recent memory. Outstanding condition, circa 1930s.

Provenance: From the Estate of Larry Howard

Lot 261, Brian Lebel's Mesa Auction - January 21, 2017
Sold $20,700

Very classic Cheyenne heel band spurs by noted maker Rex Schnitger. Silver inlays in straight and diamond engraved patterns, pointed 3” shanks, 2 1/2", 18-point rowels with punched spokes. Straps are scarce, EATONS RANCH / WOLF WYOMING maker-marked with the Eaton rope and arrow brand. A true Rocky Mountain spur set.

Lot 263, Brian Lebel's Mesa Auction - January 21, 2017
Sold $4,313

1900s California Headstall with Spade Bit and Braided Rawhide Reins

Photo documented, early California leather headstall, tastefully ornamented with coin silver spots and silver tipped headband attached to each cheek via engraved round and domed period concho. Impressive and ornate California bit (attributed to Hernandez) features floral open center rimmed by silver spots and secured to headstall by adjustable silver hangers with loops. Bit attached to braided rawhide reins with horsehair tassels making this the ultimate vaquero riding package.

Provenance: Photo of Tony Castro (circa 1902) on horseback with the bridle and bit shown; from the Estate of Larry Howard

Lot 258, Brian Lebel's Mesa Auction - January 21, 2017
Sold $3,328

The Estate of Larry Howard

Brian Lebel's Mesa Auction - January 21, 2017
Lot 51: Tom Mix's Personal Cowboy Boots. Sold $5,175
Lot 52: Bob Baldwin Canon City Spurs made for Tom Mix. Est. Sold $16,100

Lot 49: Tom Mix's Personal Batwing Chaps.
Brian Lebel's Mesa Auction - January 21, 2017
Sold $19,550

Larry W. Howard passed away at his home in Dewey, Arizona on August 9, 2016. It will go down as a sad day in the cowboy collecting world, as Larry was one of our own, and one of our best. Larry did things the right way – he was fair, honest, generous. He was well-respected and well-liked by dealers and collectors because if you knew Larry, you knew two things about him: 1) he knew the good stuff, and 2) he would treat you fairly. 

Larry was, like so many of us, an incurable collector. But when Larry fell for something, he collected the best – whether cars, saddles, spurs, buildings… it didn’t matter. Larry understood that the best items in any category would always be great. His admiration of Tom Mix lead to a collection of some of the world’s best personal Tom Mix items. 

He was a collector and lover of California spurs and bits, and believed that the work involved was truly fine art. He strove to make sure that art got the credit it deserved.

Larry also appreciated the “art” of dealing and collecting. He didn’t like that the collecting world had gotten complicated. He felt that collecting and selling had lost its fun. He started his show in Prescott, Arizona to host a gathering of friends and collectors, so that they could spend time together and have fun. Like the old days. 

He had many friends and followers, and I think that over almost 30 years of running shows, I’ve been asked, “Where can I find Larry Howard’s table?” more than any other dealer. Larry liked to hear everyone’s opinions, especially his own. The thing is, he was usually right. I counted on him for his opinion quite often myself. I will miss him, and his opinions.

-- Brian Lebel, January 2017

Lot 260: Canon City Double Mounted "Slipper" Spurs.
Brian Lebel's Mesa Auction - January 21, 2017
Sold $10,925