BOB RAY

This saddle is constructed using a 15 1/2-inch Weatherly tree made by Bob Ray, with a 3-inch by 4 1/2-inch wood post horn and 5-inch shovel cantle. It is full flower carved and has an 8-button and loop seat with California full single twist and lace stirrup leathers. Other features include 3/4 ring rigging and 26-inch tapaderos. The silver conchos and buckles were made by Ernie Marsh.

BOB RAY, Saddlemaker, Parowan, Utah
Bob Ray is a self-taught craftsman and artist and has been hand building saddle trees and saddles for over 25 years. He and his wife Carolyn make and sell a complete line of traditional cowboy gear from their shop next to their home in the Parowan Valley of southern Utah. They have worked together as hunting guides and packers and attend local brandings when not working full time in the shop.

Photos by Adam Jahiel