Stunning, custom, engraved and impressively mounted sterling saddle ensemble by Keyston Bros., the great San Francisco maker. A full parade outfit with heavy breast collar, bridle and sterling mounted Crockett bit. All in the posse style design of 5-point stars and gold horse heads. 15 1/2" seat, full covered 4" cantle with rope edge, twisted and braided leather strings and 22" tapaderos. The leather is tooled in a fine flower and acorn pattern. Seat plate engraved "L.H. Strong". Bridle marked 14K. Listed in the 1948 Keyston catalog as Saddle #1, The Diamond "K".
The saddle was originally custom ordered from Keyston by L.H. Strong of Salt Lake City, who later sold it to Tom Peck, who sold it to the current owner.
Lot includes a copy of the page from the Keyston catalog, as well as a color copy of the cover of “Utah Horse” where the saddle is pictured being ridden in by the then-Governor of Utah, Scott Matheson.
Collection of Jim and Jane Carpenter, Colorado.
Lot 181, Brian Lebel's Old West Auction - June 23rd, 2018, Santa Fe, NM.
Sold $13,570