Historic Utah State Prison Braided Bridle. A fine braided calfskin bridle with great sliding knots throughout, including on the brow band of 4 stacked rows of braided rounds. Bright hair tassels and nickel heart conchos. Martin calls this bridle "elegant" and "masterfully made". The bit is full overlaid curb with foliate and star engraving, and as noted by Martin: "the epitome of excellence of metal working."

Shown: "Horsehair Bridles: A Unique American Folk Art," on page 161: "this handsomely braided bridle exemplifies the superior skill of it's maker." A copy of the book is included.

Includes a letter from the grandson of Deputy U.S. Marshal David O. Calder. A Major with the Mormon Brigade during the Utah Indian Wars, Calder became a U.S. Marshal in 1870. He later worked at the Utah State Prison and was the proud owner of this bridle.

Lot 235, Sold $3,835
Brian Lebel's Cody Old West Auction - June 26th, 2021, Santa Fe, NM.

Florence State Penitentiary Horsehair Bridle. An amazing example of a rare Florence State Penitentiary (Arizona) bridle with triple strand round cheeks and double brow band. The colors are bright and done in a very tight diamond pattern. The bit is a valuable piece on its own, and is very unusual, showing a bare chested woman dancing above a snake.

Martin notes: "The Influence of Louis Eytinge might be seen in this bridle with the use of much brighter colors, additional tassels using both white and black horsehair (still short and no crimp), and elaborate detailing of the reins."

Pictured: “Horsehair Bridles: A Unique American Folk Art,” by Ned and Jody Martin, page 61. A copy of the book is included.

Lot 233, Sold $12,980
Brian Lebel's Cody Old West Auction - June 26th, 2021, Santa Fe, NM.

Past Auction Highlights