ANTIQUE “Great Quality” Ring Bit & Indian Horsehair Bridle +Reins 1880- Santa Fe For Sale

Here is an outstanding ring bit that I estimate dates to around the 1850s. It is complete without any repairs. In parts of the Southwest influenced by the vaquero tradition of New Spain and Mexico, a type of spade bit called a “ring bit” enjoyed widespread popularity for 150 years. It had a metal ring that fastened at the highest point of the port of the bit mouthpiece passed through the horse\'s mouth, and surrounded the lower jaw. The ring bit was used from the mid 1700s into the early 1900s. Many horsemen reported seeing the Navajo using then until after WWII. This one is special in that it still has the “coscojo” danglers still attached under the slobber bar. They served a function .. supplying a pleasant tingling ring as the horse walked. They also, by intent made a sound that could divert the evil-eye, by distracting a witch, thus saving the horseman from being cursed. A real mince among superstitious people. The fancy headstall with matching reins is made of twisted horsehair with 19 needle-knot tassels. All natural colors. Always hard to say if an early horsehair headstall was prison, Indian or Mexican made. This one which is in a GREAT condition I think was Indian made. A southwest tribe, could be Apache, Navajo, Ute, hard to say in that it is a genetic design that I think dates to about 1880s-1890s. It could of been a wild west showman’s bridle, has that look. Shows little use. My guess it was a gift and packed away for the past century or more. The headstall is soft and flexible, also not real dirty, indicating it’s been stored. You could look for the next 20 years and never find a better one. Don’t miss out on this one for a few bucks, I think well worth over $1,600.Average horse size.I sell my listings WITHOUT A RESERVE , and NO returns. Study the pictures before offerding, and ask question if you are unclear about anything. We described things as best we can but we are not experts in every field. You may know more about the item then we do. You are the judge as to quality and value. I try to list several new item every other day, so keep check my listings including early western and Mexican pieces