Antique Islamic Ottoman horse saddle from the 18th / 19th century

Rare antique Islamic wooden horse saddle from the 18th/19th century. Century from Uzbekistan or Turkmenistan.

The wood has been painted and overall golden ivory cream inlaid with carved bone (both decorative and reinforcing, in places of wear) with traces of green, white and black floral detail.

The hard wooden saddle with its high pommel was designed to accommodate the coiled reins when the rider stood hands-free in his stirrups. This allowed him to shoot arrows at a gallop and even turn to shoot backwards when performing the classic Mongolian "feigned retreat" maneuver that won so many battles against much larger armies.

It would not have been very comfortable for either horse or rider, but it comes from a culture oriented towards weaving and felting, so saddle pads would be well made, although it is said that the Tatars placed meat under their saddles to tenderize it make (steak tartare!)
The metal rings and fittings have a very hand forged feel and have now acquired a dark patina with very little visible rust.
There is a good example of one of these saddles depicted in Central Asian Art. A wooden saddle in the Bukhara Museum, but in better condition.
For the Turkmen horse breeder or museum, this piece shows its age and is missing some (5%) of its bones, but is very authentic and quite impressive.
A piece of paint and about 15 cm of bone are missing on one side of the pommel, but turned the other way it is not visible.

This Turkmen horse saddle is an authentic antique , it is not a reproduction.

Size: L 47cm x W 36cm x H 25cm

Weight: 2.9KG

Condition: Restored
(see also the pictures)

The article can also be viewed with us after making an appointment by phone!

*Due to photography and handwork, color variations may occur.
 
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The article can also be viewed with us after making an appointment by phone!