J. Tapia Southern California Spurs

J. Tapia Southern California Spurs. Highly coveted, fully mounted, 1900s double "horseshoe" pattern early Los Angeles, California spurs with 10-point spoke rowels featuring characteristic Tapia engraving and construction including stylistic teardrops under the shanks and Jesus' trademark heelchains. A rare pair of spurs with regal So Cal history from the legendary LA bit and spur maker. Two slightly bent (and easily correctible) rowel spokes, otherwise

Provenance: Frederick Hastings Rindge Estate, Rancho Malibu and Los Angeles, Calif.

Lot 582, Sold $10,620
Brian Lebel's Mesa Old West Auction - January 21st & 22nd, 2022 - Mesa, AZ.

J. Tapia California Spurs

J. Tapia California Spurs. Silver inlaid drop shank spurs mounted on the heelbands with three 3/4" coin silver spots featuring Tapia's trademark raised nipples separated by engraved ovals. Includes chased off-side, 1 3/4", 12-point spoked rowels, untooled two-piece leathers adorned with domed and scalloped silver conchos and vaquero style heelchains.

Lot 296, Sold $11,210
Brian Lebel's Cody Old West Auction - June 26th, 2021, Santa Fe, NM.

Jesus M. Tapia (1856 - 1931) Filigreed Spurs

Jesus M. Tapia (1856 - 1931) Filigreed Spurs. Exceedingly rare, artfully floral engraved, dropshank, silver inlaid, filigreed, twin harp and twisted rope pattern 1900s Southern California spurs with chased off-side and classic vaquero heel chains hanging from engraved swingers. Spurs exhibit all the classic Tapia characteristics including the telltale nesting bird design at the base of each heelband and his 12-point spoked rowel. Spurs affixed to two-piece, floral carved leathers with high domed and scalloped engraved period conchos. Fine, original condition, circa 1910.

Arguably the most coveted and valued of all the early California bit and spur makers, Jesus Tapia, was renowned for the elegance and grace of his pieces which frequently included very stylized iron work, tendrils and the elegant and artistry of filigree. Tapia's work was seldom marked but his style and quality were so distinctive that most advanced California spurs collectors have little trouble identifying the few pieces that do come to market.

Sold $29,500.
Lot 569, Brian Lebel's Mesa Old West Auction - January 25, 2020. Mesa, AZ.