Beautifully made early California spade bit attributed to Atanasio Larios from San Jose, CA. In perfect condition, this is a museum quality piece. No signs of visible damage and with all the original parts remaining. Also includes the original rein chains. Bit is hanging from a traditional California style browband leather headstall with buckles over the poll, and 4 beautiful sterling silver floral engraved conchos.  

Atanasio Larios (1835-1890s) was well known for exquisite chased ironwork. Born in Mexico in 1835, Atanasio Larios (aka Atanacio) is believed to have emigrated to Northern California in the 1870s where he perfected his bit and spurmaking talents in San Jose working for legendary firms like Marcus and Fred Stern as well as John Henry Messing and Sons. In the early 1880s, Larios moved to San Francisco working for L.D. Stone and Co and becoming one of the only spurmakers ever referenced by name in a company catalog when they noted in 1888 that “We have Mr. A. Larios, who is the best workman in that line on the Coast engaged in making Wrought Bits and Spurs, and can make any particular style wanted”. The Stone catalog offered mountings in multiple metals including German silver, aluminum, sterling and copper. Historic, 19th century, northern California bit and spur maker, whose spurs were marked either with his name and a number or with a horse head in a circle. Much of Larios' early work was unmarked and sold through the big saddleries like L D Stone, who actually referred to Larios by name in their 1888 catalog as the "best workman engaged in making bits and spurs on the Coast.”

Asking $1095 with bridle; $850 with bit only.