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.