Jesus Mardueño pattern ring bit historically brought to life. This highly detailed bit inspired me with its complex elements and vestiges of early California such as large sterling silver domed spots, single point engraving, and twisted silver wire inlays reminiscent of early makers from Santa Barbara and the LA basin. This bit is one of a handful of modern versions in existence. It features a removable ring that can be taken off the bit as the horse progresses with its training and softness. The bit can also be made with any spade or bridle bit mouthpiece.  Shown in French grey finish with classic old California-style ring mouthpiece.

Jesus Mardueno (1828-1891) was born in Jalisco Mexico where it is speculated he apprenticed as a bit and spur maker before moving to the US and settling in Monterey, California. He later moved to Santa Barbara and again began doing bit and spur making where he would eventually create and manufacture the Santa Barbara cheek pattern bit that we know today. Jesus continued this work in several other places before his passing in 1891. His son Vicente was also trained as a bit and spur maker and did silver inlay and engraving on his father’s bits.