Bridle Rosettes (Two Centuries of Equine Adornment)

Bridle rosettes–functional objects that stabilized the bridle headstall, beautifully decorated and often imbued with family, political, or social symbols–are “roadmaps of America,” spanning the last 200 years and reminding us of the major contribution of the horse to the development of the country. Over 10,000 different varieties were produced between c. 1850 and 1930. In over 800 vivid color photos many of these varieties are shown. Chapters explore glass and metal rosettes and related hardware, composition rosettes, and rosettes representing various organizations, businesses (advertising), and the military. Two later chapters present information and photographs of rosette pins, and contemporary (post-1960) and recycled rosettes. Historians, horse enthusiasts, collectors, and dealers alike will all treasure this book.