Saddle Up! The Timeless Story of Saddlery in Mexico

Saddlery has a long and rich history in Mexico. While leather and animal skins were already used for clothing, weapons, and musical instruments before the arrival of the Spanish, saddlery has its roots in Spanish influence. The development of saddlery was closely tied to the development of cattle and other species in Mexico.

Saddlery refers to the workshop dedicated to leather goods. The term comes from the Portuguese word "talabarte," which was the waistband or belt made of leather from which hung the straps holding the sword or saber. This branch of craft includes a variety of objects such as belts, bags, jackets, briefcases, trunks, huaraches, luggage, wallets, and more. These items serve a utilitarian purpose but still retain their handicraft character with their material quality and richness of finishes.

Saddlery Artisans in Mexico

In the state of Mexico, saddlery artisans can be found in municipalities such as Amatepec, Toluca, Coacalco, San Mateo Atenco, Mexicalcingo, Tenango del Valle, Tejupilco, Sultepec, and Villa del Carbon. The production of leather goods is not only an economic activity but also an expression of popular culture in these areas.

Saddlery and Charrería

Saddlery and the national sport of Mexico, charrería, have a direct link. Charrería not only involves difficult suertes or maneuvers performed on horseback but also in the way the charro presents himself. The traditional charro outfit is embroidered with narrow pants, a jacket, a wide-brimmed hat with a conical crown, boots, and a white shirt with a bow tie. Saddlery includes the manufacture of the saddle, epaulettes, jackets, vests, pants, backpacks, bags, holsters for pistols and machetes, amphorae, belts, and other elements that stand out on the horses.

Conclusion

Saddlery is a timeless tradition in Mexico that has its roots in Spanish influence and is closely tied to the development of cattle and other species. This craft includes a variety of objects, and the utilitarian purpose stands out with the richness of finishes and individual designs. Saddlery is an expression of popular culture in Mexico and is closely tied to the national sport of charrería.

The traditional charro outfit is embroidered with narrow pants, a jacket, a wide-brimmed hat with a conical crown, boots, and a white shirt with a bow tie. Saddlery includes the manufacture of the saddle and other elements that stand out on the horses. The art of saddlery is a vital part of Mexico's cultural heritage and is celebrated by artisans and enthusiasts alike.

In-Text Citation: Artesanía Mexiquense, La Magia De Nuestra Gente. 1st ed., Mexico, Gobierno del Estado de México, 2006.