Bit and Spur Makers in the Vaquero Tradition: A Historical Perspective (SIGNED) by Martin, Ned and Judy (with contributions by James Gorton and Danny Neill) - 1997

Nicasio, CA: Hawk Hill Press, 1997. First Edition, #53 of a Limited Edition of only 250 copies. SIGNED by both authors. Quarto, 336 pages. Bound in full leather with a sterling silver concho mounted on the front cover. Chronicles 85 of the Western craftsmen who created intricately engraved silver bits and spurs; 650 color photographs; spectacular! Includes bibliographical references (p. 310-327) and index. Publisher's prospectus laid in. Light fading to spine else a fine copy. American cowboys loved the flash of silver at their heels and on their horses. Western craftsmen between 1840 and 1960 responded to the cowboy's needs by creating intricately engraved silver bits and spurs that are avidly collected today. It is the largely untold story of 85 of these artisans that is related in this beautiful publication. "Far more than just a picture book, Ned and Jody's labor of love is more comprehensive, scholarly and satisfying than any previous publication on the subject. It will become the essential reference guide on the subject and should be owned by anyone with either a casual or passionate interest in the lore of the early Western cowboys and the artistry of their craftsment." - Prospectus.