Albert Espinosa Headstall with Herrera Bit

Albert Espinosa Headstall with Herrera Bit
Unmarked, but distinctive in every way. A fancy split-ear California studded headstall with silver dots and Mexican coins. A decorative face drop with central silver concho with engraved 5-point star. The classic California buckle and tip design has combination engraving and ball end. The reins are roller leather with wonderful rawhide knots. The bit has all the elements of the sought after G.S. Garcia maker and master silversmith Alsalio Herrera (1850-1941). The mouth has been changed from a spade to an open ring style spoon over the port and silver rollers added. A very nice California outfit.

Lot 187, Brian Lebel's Cody Old West Auction - June 22, 2019. Santa Fe, NM.
Sold $7,865

Luis B. Ortega Split-Ear Headstall

Luis B. Ortega, extra impressive, all natural flat braided rawhide split ear headstall. Made with 3 strands that are whip stitched together with great knots and all in unused condition. Also included, a silver inlaid CA spade bit with thing engraved lip bar and old chains.

Lot 137, Brian Lebel's Mesa Auction - January 21, 2017
Sold $5,310

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