Mongolian Wood Equestrian Saddle

A saddle of wood that tells you something about the rider’s patience.

Mongolian craftsmen made this equestrian saddle in wood in the 19th century. Saddles in Mongolia are traditionally built on a wooden frame with a high pommel and cantle, and are often covered or painted. This one is bare. The front rises in a tall, flat arch and the rear curves up more softly, with a dipped seat between. Rows of small holes pierce the sides, and a rectangular slot sits at the front. The wood is reddish-brown, darkened and dry.

About 17 inches long. It needs a horse, or at least a confident shelf.